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The AgriStress Helpline for Oregon, provided by the Oregon State University Extension Service, is a dedicated, free and confidential 24/7 support line for the state's agricultural and forestry communities. This includes people in the farming, ranching, timber and commercial fishing industries, as well as their families. The helpline can be accessed by calling or texting (833) 897-2474, with all calls answered within 30 seconds.
The helpline is designed to address the unique stressors faced by those in rural Oregon, offering immediate support and resources. Operators are trained to understand the specific challenges of agricultural and natural resource industries and can provide intervention for individuals at imminent risk. For others, they offer relevant resources and follow-up calls to ensure ongoing support.
The program is a collaboration between the OSU Extension Service and the national AgriSafe Network. The helpline is part of a broader effort to improve mental health support for rural communities, where the rate of suicide among loggers, commercial fishers, farmers and ranchers is significantly higher than the national average.
In addition to the helpline, the program includes an AgriStress Toolkit, which provides materials to help spread awareness about the helpline. This includes posters, social media tools and other resources aimed at encouraging individuals and organizations to promote the availability of this vital service.
The AgriStress Helpline is a crucial resource aimed at providing mental health support and reducing the stigma around seeking help within the agricultural and natural resource sectors.
Please consider making a gift on Dam Proud Day to support the mental health of Oregon’s agricultural and forestry community members. Thank you!