
Earlier this month, I was asked by MOST Policy Initiative to share my perspective and personal story on rural and ag mental health on a briefing to those involved in policy decisions at the Missouri state level. I shared my perspective on the three big pillars which are inhibiting access to rural mental health care: stigma, lack of mental health care providers, and sub par internet access in rural areas. I also discuss solutions to each of these issues. I want to thank Dr. Rachel Owen and Dr. Eleni Bickell with MOST for allowing me this opportunity to speak to those who make important policy decisions in our state. Also thanks to Dr. Michael Rosemann and Professor Kathy Dothage for sharing this panel with me. As I said in my talk, I am a proud rural Missourian and I want to see our state thrive.
To find out more about this panel and MOST policy initiative go to https://mostpolicyinitiative.org/mental-health-services-for-farmers-briefing/
Find out more about the other two panelists Dr. Michael Rosmann and Professor Kathy Dothage
Missouri AgrAbility – Mentioned by Professor Dothage in her part. AgrAbility helps farmers with disabilities and their families succeed. The program links MU and Lincoln University extension services with a nonprofit disability organization to provide practical education and on-the-farm assistance that promotes agricultural and rural independence. Our friend Carey Portell has been a beneficiary of their program and has spoken very candidly about it on episode 3 and 23 of our podcast