Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers face unique challenges that can affect mental health and well-being. Long hours, economic uncertainty, weather-related stress, and the demands of caring for crops, livestock, and family can make it difficult to recognize when someone needs support.
Mental Health First Aid for Agriculture is a free, one-day training designed to help participants recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges and respond with confidence and compassion. Whether you're involved in production agriculture, agribusiness, agricultural services, or simply care about supporting the agricultural community, this workshop provides practical skills that can make a difference.
Participants will learn:
- How to identify signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use challenges.
- How to recognize when someone may be experiencing distress or a crisis.
- Practical steps to support someone and connect them with appropriate help.
- Strategies for reducing stigma and encouraging open, supportive conversations.
- Local and national resources available to individuals and families.
This interactive training equips participants with a proven action plan to approach, assist, and support someone who may be struggling. By increasing awareness and building confidence, participants can help create stronger, healthier, and more connected agricultural communities.
Cost
Registration
Advance registration is required, and space may be limited. Registration closes October 13, 2026.
To register, click the registration button at the top of this page. The registration form includes all available training locations, allowing you to select the date and location that works best for you.
Additional training opportunities
If you're unable to attend this training, you may register for one of these additional Mental Health First Aid for Agriculture workshops offered in west-central Illinois:
- November 12, 2026 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
McDonough County 4-H Center
3028 W. Jackson Street, Macomb, IL - November 13, 2026 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rushville Fitness and Community Center
120 Rodewald Drive, Rushville, IL
Questions and accommodations
For more information or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Cynthia Colvin at colvin4@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.
Funding
This program is funded by the Tracy Family Foundation. Partial funding is provided by USDA grant 2024-70028-43552.
