Source: Cornell Chronicle
The College of Veterinary Medicine and NY FarmNet, in collaboration with Rural Minds, has launched a free online course titled “Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Rural America.” Aimed at Veterinary students, veterinarians, and agribusiness professionals, the course addresses mental health issues, including suicide, prevalent in rural communities, and offers practical strategies and resources for support. Rural areas experience significantly higher suicide rates, with farmers particularly at risk due to factors like financial instability and isolation. The course provides essential skills for recognizing warning signs and accessing resources, including crisis hotlines.
Jeff Winton, founder of Rural Minds, highlighted the critical role veterinarians play in identifying mental health challenges within their communities. The course aims to combat the stigma around seeking help and improve mental health support in rural areas. By equipping professionals with knowledge and resources, the initiative seeks to alleviate the mental health crisis affecting rural communities across America.
Read the full story HERE: https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2024/09/online-course-helps-veterinarians-support-rural-mental-health