Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Mental Health in Agriculture

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), introduced a bipartisan resolution to raise awareness of the mental health crisis in the agricultural industry, designating May 29, 2026, as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL). Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced a companion resolution in the Senate. 

“Farmers in Washington state and across the country face a variety of challenges, from extreme weather and skyrocketing costs to changing markets at home and abroad,” Congresswoman Schrier said. “Our agricultural industry is under stress, which has taken a toll on farmers’ mental health. I am proud to introduce this resolution to raise awareness of this rural mental health crisis and commit to supporting our producers in every way we can as they feed our country, uplift our economies, and bolster rural America.”

In Washington state, suicide rates within the agricultural industry are nearly 25% higher than the overall state rate. Top mental health risk factors faced by farmers, ranchers, producers, and farm workers in Washington include economic hardship, regulatory burdens, high physical and psychological demand, and a stigma against mental health services – according to a 2025 state report. 

“Our farmers are proud, salt of the Earth people, but they face tremendous pressures in a tough industry,” Congressman Bost said. “The stress that comes with the profession is real, with a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than the general population. Volatile markets, rising input costs, and unpredictable weather don't just threaten a family farm’s bottom line, they take a toll on mental health, too. This legislation is a step towards making sure they know that if they’re struggling, they don’t have to struggle alone.”

 “Colorado farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers face unprecedented challenges from severe drought to increased costs that can take a toll on their mental health,” Senator Bennet said. “I’ve consistently worked to expand access to affordable, reliable mental health care for all Coloradans and am grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to designate May 29th as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day. Providing visibility and awareness to address these challenges is essential for progress.” 
“Farmers, ranchers, and ag workers have some of the toughest jobs in the country,” Senator Fischer said. “Right now, a struggling farm economy is making life even harder – and it weighs heavily on the minds of those who feed and fuel our nation. This resolution designates May 29th as Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day and sheds light on the resources available for those in need. I thank my colleagues for joining this bipartisan, bicameral effort as we keep working to ease the strain in farm country.”  

This legislation is supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the National Farmers Union, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the National Rural Health Association, the American Soybean Association, the National Pork Producers, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Corn Growers Association, the Agricultural Retailers Association, and the Farm Credit Services of America. 

Click here for national resources available to those in need.

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