The Triple-Duty Balancing Act: Challenges Faced by Women in Agriculture

Women in agriculture are balancing more than just farm duties; they’re navigating a triple-duty lifestyle that can often lead to adverse mental health outcomes. This complexity, as highlighted by Cheyanne Dierickx, a visiting Extension outreach associate at the University of Illinois, sheds light on the unique pressures these women face.

Understanding the Triple-Duty Lifestyle

The Role of Women in Agriculture

Women in farming typically juggle multiple roles:

• Homemakers
• Farmworkers
• Off-farm Professionals

Dierickx pointed out at the 2025 Rural Mental Health Summit that these women often seek off-farm employment to create a safety net during unpredictable market conditions and to access vital health insurance.

“It’s no wonder there’s a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and psychological stress among women in agriculture,” she said.

Emotional Toll on Male Farmers

While women face significant pressures, men in agriculture are also affected by traditional gender roles. Many feel the weight of being the sole financial provider, leading to feelings of inadequacy that can affect their mental health.

“Men feel like they need to be tough, not show emotion, and don’t need help,” Dierickx explains. This cultural expectation can hinder their willingness to seek support, putting them at a higher risk for substance abuse and even suicide, compared to women in farming.

Unique Stressors in Agriculture

Agricultural life inherently comes with stressors that are often not present in everyday jobs. Research indicates that farm producers experience higher levels of anxiety and depression than the general population, making them two to five times more likely to die by suicide.

Substance Use Among Farmers

A study conducted by the University of Illinois found staggering statistics: approximately 75% of farmers had reported alcohol use, and about 30% used tobacco within the past three months. These numbers are significantly higher than the national averages.

Additionally, the opioid crisis has seeped into rural communities, impacting 74% of farmers and farm workers according to a study by the American Farm Bureau Federation. This highlights the urgent need for mental health resources tailored specifically for agricultural communities.

Barriers to Mental Health Care

Dierickx emphasizes four key barriers that prevent farmers from accessing mental health services: accessibility, availability, affordability, and acceptability.

Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program

In response to these challenges, the Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program was launched to provide financial support for mental health care. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, aims to reduce barriers for farmers and their families.

• Eligibility: The program is open to producers, farmworkers, and family members residing in Illinois.
• How It Works: Once a voucher is requested, recipients receive three vouchers and a directory of providers. Additional vouchers can be requested based on funding availability.

“No proof of insurance is needed, making it easier for farmers to seek help without bureaucratic hurdles,” Dierickx noted.

A Growing Demand for Support

The program has witnessed incredible growth over three years:

• 2022 Requests: 87
• 2023 Requests: 126
• 2024 Requests: A staggering 521% increase, totaling 783 vouchers requested.

This surge reflects the pressing need for mental health resources in agricultural communities.

Collaborative Efforts for Mental Health

The University of Illinois Extension leads the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center, which covers a 12-state region focused on developing stress management and mental health resources for farmers.

Support for Farmers with Disabilities

Alongside mental health services, Illinois AgrAbility assists farmers facing physical disabilities—whether from aging or injuries—allowing them to maintain their independence and continue farming.

“There are tools available to help them farm safely, addressing both physical and mental health needs,” Dierickx explained.

Conclusion: Taking the Next Step

Greater awareness of the mental health challenges faced by women and men in agriculture is crucial. Initiatives like the Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program are key to providing much-needed support.

For additional resources and information on managing mental health in agricultural communities, check out Farm Stress.

By shining a light on these essential issues, we can pave the way for healthier, more balanced lives for those who feed our nation.