MassGrown Wellness Support Skills

Skills to Support the Massachusetts Agricultural Community

Research has shown active listening and de-escalation skills are an important part of helpful reactions when encountering a fellow farmer experiencing mental health concerns. Commissioner Randle Discusses the importance of reducing the stigma associated with mental health and wellness and how listening can open the door to healing.

Listen to Learn

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Commissioner Randle explains how listening to farmers who show signs of stress is the key to identifying any mental health issues.

Listening, De-escalating, and Referring

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Commissioner Randle explains the advantages of listening to learn and not to simply respond, while pointing out changes in a farmer’s behavior to watch for, including alterations to daily routines and moods.

Moving Beyond the Stigma

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An important first step to improving mental health in the Massachusetts agricultural community is addressing the stigma associated with asking for help. Commissioner Randle discusses the stigma associated with asking for help and why we should all be having these important discussions. Reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness, and it’s important that the farming community and its supporters have the tools to seek assistance and the ways to access the resources.

You're Part of a Community

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May of each year is #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth. Commissioner Randle encourages all members of the Massachusetts agricultural community to become involved with MDAR’s efforts to maintain a healthy farming community year-round, through the Department’s statewide peer-to-peer support network of farmers, family and friends.