Agricultural workers face intense pressures, stress, financial instability, isolation, and natural disasters, contributing to suicide rates far above the national average. Yet stigma often keeps them from seeking help. CHWs are crucial in recognizing early signs of distress and offering supportive, culturally informed responses. With the right tools, like Mental Health First Aid, CHWs can help prevent crises and guide individuals toward safety and recovery.

Despite the importance of mental health, it is an area of healthcare that is most often ignored by those affected due to stigmatization and/or lack of available options for treatment. This report will provide an overall landscape of mental health in the United States and delve into specific issues faced by agricultural workers.

Farmworkers may be facing certain barriers to self-care due to unique challenges related to living and working conditions. These can include stressful working conditions, physical illness, limited English language skills, and living in a remote location. However, self-care can help you improve overall mental health.

This Guide provides health center staff with important resources, information, and tools to address the unique mental health needs of their agricultural worker patients. One of the most crucial resources we explore is the active role of Community Health Workers to bridge the gap between agricultural workers and clinical care.