Addressing the wellness needs of those working in agriculture or related areas will be the focus of the upcoming Question, Persuade, Refer suicide prevention webinars sponsored by North Dakota State University Extension. Three sessions are scheduled: Nov. 20 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Jan. 21 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Feb. 23 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The 90-minute webinars will address concerns of high stress levels in agriculture-related jobs and the effect on well-being.

Research indicates the suicide rate is significantly higher for those working in agriculture. The QPR training will provide participants with skills to recognize warning signs of a mental health crisis or suicidal thinking and to respond in an appropriate and supportive way.

“Ongoing farm and ranch stress takes a toll on health, including mental and emotional well-being,” says NDSU Extension family science specialist Sean Brotherson. “We say, ‘Sometimes you need help and sometimes you are help.’”

NDSU Extension agents Katie Henry (Cavalier County) and Jill Sokness (Cass County), along with Madeleine Smith, NDSU Extension pesticide specialist, will facilitate the webinars.

Although the training will focus on people working in and around agriculture, anyone interested in the topic can register. There is no cost for the training, which is supported by a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant.

Registration is limited to the first 30 participants per webinar. To learn more or to register for the November training, visit ndsu.ag/QPRnovember.

For additional information, contact Adriana Drusini at adriana.drusini@ndsu.edu or Brotherson at sean.brotherson@ndsu.edu.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Oct. 16, 2025

Source: Adriana Drusini, 701-231-1856, adriana.drusini@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu