Strong Minds, Strong Farms
Our primary focus is offering the best mental health care for those most in need. Our masters level, licensed therapists are here to help no matter your faith, background or income level. No one needing care will be turned away.
Consistently cited by government, insurance, and other accrediting institutions as exhibiting and adhering to best practices in the mental health industry.
Because You Know Them Best
You know the farmer you love better than almost anyone.
You may be the first to notice something has changed. Maybe they're quieter, more irritable, not sleeping, drinking more, constantly worried or simply don't seem like themselves.
Trust what you're noticing. You don't have to diagnose the problem to start a conversation.
What to Watch For
Pay attention to changes such as:
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Withdrawing from family, friends or activities
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Trouble sleeping or persistent exhaustion
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Increased anger, irritability or frustration
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Constant worry or difficulty concentrating
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Increased alcohol or substance use
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Feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
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Difficulty keeping up with everyday responsibilities
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Saying or suggesting that things will never get better
A single sign doesn't necessarily mean someone needs professional care. A pattern of changes—or simply your sense that something isn't right—is worth paying attention to.
Starting the Conversation
You don't need the perfect words. Start with what you've noticed and let them know you care.
Try:
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"I've noticed you haven't seemed like yourself lately. How are you really doing?"
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"You've been carrying a lot. I'm worried about you."
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"You don't have to figure this out by yourself."
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"Would you be willing to talk with someone?"
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Then listen. You don't have to solve the problem.
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Try to avoid minimizing what they're experiencing with phrases such as "It could be worse," "Just don't worry about it," or "You'll be fine."
Helping Them Take the Next Step
If they're open to professional support, make the first step easier. Offer to find the phone number, sit with them while they call, or help complete an online contact form.
Catholic Charities offers confidential mental health counseling and substance use disorder outpatient treatment for farmers and their families. Services are available to people of all faiths and backgrounds, and no one is turned away because of an inability to pay.
During planting and harvest, extended telehealth hours—including early morning, evening and limited weekend appointments—help make counseling possible even during long days in the field.
Remember to Take Care of You, Too
Farm stress rarely affects only one person. Supporting someone who is struggling can be exhausting and isolating. Catholic Charities' services are for spouses and family members, too.
Ready to take the next step—for them or for you?
Complete our Contact Us form, email info@cathchar.com, or call 712.252.4547.
Tell us you're part of a farm family so we can help find an appointment to work with your schedule.
Additional Resources:
HELP IS AVAILABLE DAY OR NIGHT
24/7 Emergency Contact Numbers
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National Suicide & Crisis Line: Call or Text 988
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Your Life Iowa: Call 855-581-8111 for information, resources, crisis support and referrals
Our Locations
Main Office -
Sioux City
1601 Military Road,
Sioux City, IA 51103
(712) 252-4547
Hours:
M, W, Th 8:00am-7:00pm,
T 8:00am-8:00pm,
F 8:30am -5:00pm