Mental Health Lifeline for Oregon’s Agricultural Workers Gains Momentum
SALEM, Ore. — For farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers in Oregon, mental health support is now just a phone call away. The AgriStress Helpline, a specialized service tailored to the unique needs of these communities, is making waves as a critical resource for an often-overlooked population.
“It’s specifically directed to folks who are from farm, ranch, fish, and forestry or timber communities and their families in Oregon,” said Dr. Allison Myers, a professor at the College of Health at oregon State University. The helpline addresses a pressing issue: high suicide rates among agricultural and natural resource workers.
“What we know is that there are population groups who are most affected by suicide, and members of our agriculture and natural resource communities are particularly burdened,” Myers explained.
A Growing Need for Support
In 2023, Oregon lawmakers took a significant step by passing a bill allocating $300,000 to an OSU endowment to fund the helpline. As its launch, agricultural workers in 23 of oregon’s 36 counties have accessed the service. Rep. Bobby Levy, a vocal advocate for the initiative, emphasized its importance.
“It’s starting off to be a really big success. and if we can save one life, one life, it’s very crucial,” Levy said.
Securing Long-Term Stability
This year, Senate Bill 779 aims to secure an additional $2 million from the state’s general fund to ensure the helpline’s long-term sustainability. The bill,co-sponsored by Levy and Sen. Todd Nash, is designed to provide financial stability through a guaranteed 4% return on investment.
“The AgriStress Helpline right now costs about $68,000 a year. Where we house the funds within Oregon State, we’re guaranteed a rate of 4% return. And so that’s the reason that we’re asking for that amount of money,” Nash explained.
Opposition and Next Steps
While the helpline has garnered widespread support, some opponents argue against using general funds for its operation. the bill is currently awaiting public testimony in the Senate Committee on Judiciary, where its future will be debated.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Helpline Focus | Mental health support for agricultural and natural resource workers |
| Current Funding | $300,000 allocated in 2023 |
| Proposed Funding | Additional $2 million via Senate Bill 779 |
| Annual Cost | $68,000 |
| Counties Served | 23 of Oregon’s 36 counties |
A vital Resource for Oregon’s Backbone
The AgriStress Helpline is more than just a service—it’s a lifeline for the individuals who form the backbone of Oregon’s agricultural economy. As the state grapples with mental health challenges, this initiative stands as a testament to the power of targeted support.
For more information on the helpline or to share your thoughts on Senate Bill 779, visit the Oregon State Legislature website.
—
Stay informed about mental health initiatives and legislative updates by following KATU News.
AgriStress Helpline: A Mental Health Lifeline for Oregon’s Agricultural Workers
In Oregon, where agriculture is a cornerstone of teh economy, mental health resources tailored to farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers have become increasingly vital. The AgriStress Helpline, a specialized service launched in 2023, is addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities. With high suicide rates among agricultural and natural resource workers, the helpline has emerged as a critical resource.In this interview, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, Laura Harper, speaks with Dr. Allison myers, a professor at the College of Health at Oregon State University, to discuss the initiative’s impact, funding, and future.
The need for Targeted Mental Health Support
Laura Harper: Dr. Myers, can you explain the pressing need for a helpline like AgriStress in Oregon’s agricultural communities?
Dr. Allison Myers: Absolutely. Individuals in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and related industries face unique stressors—financial uncertainty, isolation, and the physical demands of their work. These factors contribute to higher suicide rates. The AgriStress Helpline was designed to provide immediate, culturally relevant support to these workers and their families. It’s about recognizing their struggles and offering a lifeline when they need it most.
Funding and Legislative Support
Laura Harper: In 2023, Oregon lawmakers allocated $300,000 to fund the helpline.How has this funding been utilized, and what’s next?
Dr. allison Myers: The initial funding allowed us to launch the helpline, and it’s already serving agricultural workers in 23 of Oregon’s 36 counties. However, to ensure long-term sustainability, Senate bill 779 proposes an additional $2 million from the state’s general fund. This would secure a 4% return on investment, covering the helpline’s annual cost of $68,000. Representatives like Bobby Levy and Todd Nash have been instrumental in advocating for this expansion.
The Helpline’s Impact and Reach
Laura Harper: What kind of impact has the helpline had so far in the communities it serves?
Dr. Allison Myers: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve seen a steady increase in calls from workers who may have otherwise hesitated to seek help. The helpline provides emotional support, crisis counseling, and connections to local resources. Rep. Levy put it best: “if we can save one life, it’s very crucial.” This initiative is proving to be a vital resource for Oregon’s agricultural backbone.
Challenges and Opposition
Laura Harper: Despite its success, some oppose using general funds for the helpline. How would you address these concerns?
Dr. Allison Myers: It’s important to understand that this isn’t just about financial allocation—it’s about saving lives. The agricultural sector is vital to Oregon’s economy, and supporting the mental health of its workforce benefits everyone.The helpline is a cost-effective solution to a pressing problem. While there’s opposition, we’re hopeful that the Senate Committee on Judiciary will recognize its value during public testimony.
Conclusion: A Vital Resource for Oregon’s Agricultural Workers
As Dr. Myers emphasized, the AgriStress Helpline is more than a service—it’s a lifeline for Oregon’s agricultural workers. With its targeted support, legislative backing, and growing reach, the initiative is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions in addressing mental health challenges. For more details on the helpline or to share your thoughts on Senate Bill 779, visit the Oregon State Legislature website.
