Central ND News

North Dakota State University Extension is set to host two upcoming webinars focused on suicide prevention for those working in agriculture and related fields. The sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, aim to address the high stress levels associated with agriculture-related jobs and their impact on mental and emotional well-being. The webinars are scheduled for March 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and May 13 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Research highlights a notably higher suicide rate among individuals employed in agriculture. The Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training will equip participants with skills to identify warning signs of a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts and how to respond supportively.

Sean Brotherson, an NDSU Extension family science specialist, noted the effects of ongoing farm and ranch stress on health. "Ongoing farm and ranch stress takes a toll on health, including mental and emotional well-being," he said. "We say, ‘Sometimes you need help and sometimes you are help.’"

The webinars will be led by NDSU Extension agents Katie Henry from Cavalier County and Jill Sokness from Cass County, alongside Extension pesticide specialist Madeleine Smith.

While the focus is on those involved in agriculture, registration is open to anyone interested. There is no cost for attending these sessions as they are funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Each webinar has a cap of 30 participants. To register for the March session, visit ndsu.ag/qprmarch25; for the May session, visit ndsu.ag/qprmay25.