Farming involves so many factors beyond our control. Financial pressures and hopelessness can make it seem like suicide is the only option. If the obstacles are adding up and you don’t see a way out, please know that help is just a phone call or text away.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is fully dedicated to the mental health of our farm families. We want to make sure you have all the resources you need to face any crisis in your family or on the farm.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Any Tennessean can call or text 988 and be routed to a local call center for the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
You can also livechat online at 988lifeline.org/chat/.
These options are FREE, CONFIDENTIAL, and will immediately connect you with a trained counselor who can help. Anyone can use these resources, no matter if you are the one who needs help or if you are concerned about a friend, family member, or co-worker.
Warning signs indicating a person may be at risk to harm self or others include:
- Talk of suicide
- Changes in sleep and/or eating patterns
- Stopped taking medication as prescribed or hoarding medication
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Preoccupation with death
- Making last arrangements, giving away possessions
- Obtaining firearms
- Withdrawal from family, friends and routines that were pleasurable
- Aggressive and disruptive behavior
- Increased irritability and criticism
- History of suicide of family member or friend
Look at the back of your health insurance card for “mental health” or “behavioral health” care information. Most people have mental health insurance coverage and may not realize it. When you call the number on your insurance card, you can seek assistance for a variety of services with in-network providers.
Individuals should ask their employer about Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). Some agencies provide EAP benefits to workers.
There are a variety of other resources available, including the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN).