By Scout Nelson
Farmers across South Dakota and the Midwest face heavy financial pressure as soft crop prices and rising expenses strain their operations. This financial stress often leads to emotional challenges and mental health concerns.
Tanner Hento, second vice-president of the South Dakota Soybean Association, is speaking out to remind farmers that help is available and easy to reach.
Hento urges farmers to call the Avera Farm and Rural Stress Hotline, a free resource supported by the USDA. The hotline number is 1-800-691-4336 and connects callers with trained professionals. These professionals provide emotional support, guidance on financial resources, and practical advice for farm management.
“This service is there for whatever you are going through, whether it is emotional, financial, or operational,” Hento explains.
The hotline, operated by Avera Health System, offers confidential conversations and can help farmers explore options like refinancing or getting an outside opinion on farm operations. Hento says having an objective voice can make a big difference when farmers feel overwhelmed.
He speaks from personal experience about the toll farming can take, sharing that he lost a parent to suicide. Hento understands how easily financial strain can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness. “Farmers may think they are alone, but they are not,” he says. “Even with low crop prices and tough markets, there is always someone to listen and help.”
While Hento remains committed to promoting soybeans through the Soybean Checkoff program, he emphasizes that farmer well-being comes first. “We care about your crop, but more importantly we care about you as a person,” he says.
Farmers and rural residents are encouraged to reach out for help when stress feels overwhelming. Support is available, and no one has to face these challenges alone.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-hirurg
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Soybeans, Rural Lifestyle