November 27, 2020 - South Dakota State University Extension will conduct a statewide needs assessment to help agricultural producers manage stress, utilizing a U.S. Department of Agriculture program called the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network. The program is a 12-state collaborative that addresses stress management and mental health resources in the North Central region.
SDSU Extension Director Karla Trautman said, “This project will establish the critical foundation needed to identify the mental health needs across rural communities in South Dakota. By establishing this foundation, SDSU Extension is then positioned to provide appropriate resources in accordance with our land grant mission, which is to provide transformational strategies that meet critical needs.”
SDSU Extension specialists will execute a three-year strategy to develop an expanded network. The plan will utilize focus groups, surveys, and stakeholder interviews to develop an action plan to build the assistance network.
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