Connecting Mental Health Resources with Farmers Affected by HPAI
Extension Education
Ryan McMichael
ANR Extension Educator
The Ohio State University
Celina
Abstract
During early 2025, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza spread through the counties of Mercer and Darke of Ohio. At the time of submission, there were a total of 74 outbreaks that occurred in the region, causing producer to depopulate their flocks and facilities sit empty, while following USDA and ODA protocols. Poultry producers and other farmers in the agricultural industries began to see the impacts of empty barns, rising cases of HPAI, and financial concerns. OSU Extension Educators in the region looked for methods to address and assist the mental health concerns of these producers and other affected by HPAI. A workshop was held on March 5, 2025, for employees of county agricultural agencies, key agricultural companies, agricultural lenders and others to educate best practices when communicating with farmers under stressed conditions. Other outreach programs including booths at local agricultural retail stores and providing display materials for mental health assistance. The educators worked with Ohio Mental Health Addiction Services to promote 988 in various manners as well.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Ryan McMichael, Caden Buschur, Sarah Noggle
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McMichael, R. ANR Extension Educator, The Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45822
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Buschur, C. ANR Extension Educator, The Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45331
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Noggle, S. ANR Extension Educator, The Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45879