This can threaten the financial viability and stability of the farming operation. In addition, reductions in farm income have a domino effect on the entire rural economy and can threaten small town business and agricultural manufacturing. As a rural mental health professional, you no doubt will have clients in need of counseling because of these difficulties. Without question, an ability to positively address some of the causes of the stress will assist you in helping the farmer deal with its effects. Mediation can do that.
Mediation is an important resource for the rural mental health professional.
The agricultural mediation programs were designed to help farmers deal with these issues in a comprehensive manner. Mediation's strength lies in its flexibility. It can help deal with the business concerns and emotions at the same time. You may be aware of mediation through family court. In many states, mediation is now used to handle divorces, property settlements, and child custody and visitation issues.