Utah Pulls Plug on Free Therapy for Farmers Despite Suicide Crisis

Amid soaring mental health struggles in rural America, Utah abruptly ended its free counseling vouchers for farmers, leaving a vulnerable population without critical support. The short-lived program was funded by a federal grant that covered therapy costs for agricultural workers and ranchers. It proved unexpectedly popular, quickly using up its funds as drought, financial stress, and isolation pushed farmers to seek help in record numbers. After the grant expired, state legislators declined to step in and sustain it, citing budget constraints. Advocates warn the timing couldn’t be worse, as farm communities still face high suicide rates. The program had reduced stigma around getting help—yet now many farmers are left with no affordable option. Officials blame the federal government for not renewing funding, while rural mental health providers lament that progress made in normalizing therapy may be undone.