URBANA, Ill. – As farmers across the state face mounting economic pressures, University of Illinois Extension reminds agricultural producers, advisers and families that free help is available wherever you are.

Assistance resources range from mental health vouchers and crisis support lines to comprehensive financial planning tools. Economic stress takes a personal toll. Financial uncertainty and farm-related stress can increase the risk of mental health challenges among producers and their families, with farmers experiencing suicide at over three times the rate of the general population.

“The farming and ag sector is facing many challenges when planning farm operations for 2026,” said Travis Burke, assistant dean and program leader for agriculture and agribusiness at Illinois Extension. “These resources are here to help and support the individuals feeding our world.”

With 16 commercial agriculture educators and specialists working throughout the state, Illinois Extension is ready to help farmers, producers, landowners, researchers, advisers and anyone who needs assistance navigating these challenging times. Visit go.illinois.edu/ExtensionOffice to find an Extension office near you.

Mental health resources

The website provides resources and services to support farm stress and mental health in the agricultural community. Find helpful content and statistics, the mindfulness in agriculture video series, and the Mental Health Vouchers for Ag Producers program. Explore resources at go.illinois.edu/FarmStressHealth.

- Mental Health Vouchers for Ag Producers

The Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program connects agricultural producers and their families with local mental health professionals. This program allows producers to access mental health services at no cost to themselves or their families. For more information, visit go.illinois.edu/MentalHealthVoucher.

- North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center

The North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center Illinois provides resources, support, and helplines for producers. Experiencing a mental health crisis? Text HOME to 741741 or call 1-800-273-TALK.

Financial planning tools

The farmdoc website provides a suite of free resources designed to help producers make informed decisions and better manage their farm businesses. From cash flow projections and loan analysis to crop insurance calculators and rent evaluation tools, these resources provide clarity in uncertain times. Visit farmdoc.illinois.edu to explore the tools available.

The Farm Coach blog features articles for both farmers and landowners, covering topics such as working with a farm lender, succession planning, how to use balance sheets, and cash rent lease tips. To view articles, visit go.illinois.edu/FarmCoachBlog.