Support Your Neighbor: September is Suicide Awareness Month

This episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection focuses on Suicide Awareness Month and why suicide prevention matters in agriculture, citing 2024 U.S. figures of 48,824 deaths by suicide and millions more who considered, planned, or attempted. The host explains that farmers and agricultural workers are about twice as likely to die by suicide, describing unique stressors such as lack of control over prices, weather, and legislative pressures, generational and societal expectations, and financial crises, while noting a family loss in the mid-1980s and ongoing concerns in 2026. The episode highlights stigma around therapy in rural communities, limited access to mental healthcare, and the benefits of telehealth. It encourages checking in with neighbors and friends and shares the free, confidential AgriStress hotline (call/text 833-897-2474), available 24/7 in multiple states, including Arizona. Learn more and get resources at https://www.agrisafe.org/agristress-helpline/. 00:00 Why This Matters 00:14 Suicide Facts And Risk 01:02 Unique Farm Stressors 02:05 Personal And Generational Impact 02:45 Rural Culture And Stigma 03:50 Access Gaps And Telehealth 05:13 Check In On Neighbors 06:53 AgriStress Hotline Resource 08:14 Community Support And Closing