CARBONDALE, Ill. — A statewide program providing confidential mental health services to Illinois farm families has adopted a new name and launched a new website.
The Farm Family Resource Initiative is now FARM SOS. The change gives the seven-year-old program a shorter name that more clearly describes its purpose.
FARM SOS began as a pilot program covering six Illinois counties in 2019. It has since expanded to serve agricultural families across all 102 counties.
The program is operated through a partnership involving the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Illinois Department of Agriculture and Illinois Department of Human Services.
FARM SOS helps farmers and their families manage financial pressure, farm-related stress, personal hardship and other challenges affecting their well-being.
Program coordinator Karen Stallman said the new identity is intended to make the service easier to recognize and encourage more conversations about mental health in rural communities.
The name is changing, but the program’s commitment to Illinois farm families remains the same.
Illinois Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II said farmers face a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than the general population. He said stigma surrounding mental health treatment can keep people in agriculture from seeking assistance.
FARM SOS services are confidential, available around the clock and provided at no cost to Illinois farm families.
Farmers and family members can call 1-833-FARM-SOS or 1-833-327-6767 to speak with a trained professional. Callers can receive emotional support and referrals to services matched to their individual needs.
The program also offers as many as six free telehealth counseling sessions. Counseling is available for individuals, couples and groups.
More information is available at ILFARMSOS.com.
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