New York State is expanding access to mental health services in rural areas with a $9.6 million investment aimed at supporting individuals living with mental illness and addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers and agricultural workers. This initiative will establish four new Critical Time Intervention teams and launch the Farmers Supporting Farmers program to provide peer-driven, culturally responsive mental health assistance across 44 rural counties.
The State Office of Mental Health will allocate $7.6 million over five years to create two new Critical Time Intervention teams in Western New York and two in the North Country. These teams will work closely with community hospitals to assist individuals during transitional periods, ensuring they have access to ongoing support and essential services.
Additionally, $2 million will fund the Farmers Supporting Farmers program, a statewide effort to address the behavioral health needs of those working in agriculture. Given the economic pressures and stress associated with farming, this program will offer both wellness resources and technical assistance to help farm workers and their families manage financial and business-related challenges while improving mental health outcomes.
With rural areas covering approximately 43,000 square miles and home to 3.4 million New Yorkers, this investment seeks to bridge the gap in mental health services. Studies indicate that rural communities experience higher suicide rates than urban areas, and nearly 20 percent of rural residents aged 55 and older live with a mental health condition. These new initiatives will provide essential support to underserved populations, reinforcing New York’s commitment to expanding access to behavioral health care statewide.
