Stronger Together: Prioritizing Mental Health on the Farm

Article by Eric Washington

At National Sorghum Producers, we know farming isn’t just a job. It’s a calling. It’s the early mornings, the long days, the endless problem-solving, and the deep pride that comes with producing something real. But we also know those same demands can take a toll. Agriculture is one of the most rewarding careers there is, and one of the most stressful.

Markets rise and fall. Weather shifts without warning. Costs go up while margins tighten. For many producers, these pressures pile up quietly. The weight can be heavy, and it’s not always easy to talk about. But no one in this community should ever carry that burden alone.

The truth is, mental health is farm health. The same care and attention we give to our crops, livestock, and land must also extend to ourselves and our families. Taking time to check in, to rest, and to ask for help when we need it are acts of strength, not weakness.

Across the sorghum industry, we’ve seen the power of connection firsthand. When producers come together, whether at meetings, field days, or over a cup of coffee, something changes. Conversations open up. Support grows. That sense of shared understanding is one of our community’s greatest assets.

At NSP, our mission has always been to stand shoulder to shoulder with our growers in the good years and the hard ones. We’ll continue to advocate for the markets, tools, and policies that keep operations strong, but we also want to remind every farmer and rancher that your well-being matters just as much as your yield.

If you’re struggling or simply need to talk, please reach out. You can always call us at 806-749-3478. We’ll listen, help connect you with the right support, and remind you that you are not alone in this.

The sorghum industry is built on resilience, but it’s sustained by people. And when we take care of ourselves and each other, we’re all stronger for it.