Relationships Can Heal: Knowing the Farmer Client

Even in good times, farmers face a unique set of challenges when it comes to rural stress and mental health. Professionals working in the healthcare or mental health fields may not be aware of or understand these unique challenges, said David Brown, behavioral health state specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Because of this, ISU Extension and Outreach is hosting two in-person “Relationships Can Heal: Knowing the Farmer Client” programs this spring. This training for healthcare and mental health professionals will help them learn more about the culture, identity, occupation and well-being of farm and ranch producers. These professionals will also learn more about the challenges and barriers that farmers and ranchers face in seeking care.

The first class will be held at the ISU Extension and Outreach Woodbury County office at 4728 Southern Hills Drive in Sioux City on Thursday, April 17. Those interested can register online for the Sioux City class. The class will start at 8:30 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m.

The second class will be held at the ISU Extension and Outreach Polk County office at 1625 Adventureland Drive, Ste. A, Altoona, on Thursday, April 24. Those interested can register online for the Altoona class. The class will start at 8:30 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m.

Both classes are offered at no cost due to a USDA NIFA grant funded through the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center at the University of Illinois. This program has been approved for 6.25 continuing education hours through the National Board for Certified Counselors.

The presenters for both classes are David Brown, behavioral health state specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach; Tim Christensen, farm management specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach; and Rich Gassman, director of Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Iowa. For more information, please contact David Brown at 515-298-1505 or dnbrown@iastate.edu.