Jeff Ditzenberger advocates for rural mental health awareness

Jeff Ditzenberger, founder of the Monroe-based organization TUGS (Talk, Understanding, Growing, Supporting), is advocating for increased mental health awareness within the farming community. A former farmer who faced life-threatening mental health challenges, Ditzenberger emphasizes that while tools for support have increased, social stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help.

Farmers face unique, uncontrollable pressures including volatile market prices, unpredictable weather, and shifting supply costs, alongside personal health and relationship issues. The Mid-West Farm Report Network and Rural Mutual Insurance are working to highlight that physical farm safety and mental wellness are interconnected. Ditzenberger notes that while mental health discussions were once taboo, conversations are becoming more frequent and honest, though he stresses that community-wide support from family, neighbors, and acquaintances is essential.