Grant to improve mental health services

Jim DeMuth thinks Iowa State University Extension is the perfect partner to administer $850,000 in federal dollars earmarked to improve mental health services for rural Iowans affected by the changing economy. DeMuth, executive director of the Plains Mental Health Center in LeMars, is a member of one of seven area teams ISU Extension has created across the state to direct community-specific input into how the dollars will be best put to use.

"Extension is already so involved in the agricultural community," DeMuth said, "and raised community awareness and education is needed, along with counseling services, whether financial, family, emergency or legal."

The Iowa Concern hotline, (800) 447-1985, provides confidential assistance and referral for stress, legal questions and financial concerns for Iowa families in times of crisis and change. The Iowa Concern Hotline is answered 24 hours a day. ISU Extension has provided this service since 1985.

JaneAnn Stout and Jim Meek, with ISU Extension to Families, have been working with extension area directors, forming teams across the state to determine how the funds can best be used to increase services and awareness for resource and referral, training for community partners and crisis intervention. Stout says the statewide effort is community focused, and is directed at assisting rural Iowans -- farm and non-farm families, youth, employers and employees, all who have been affected by farm financial stress.

The rural mental health funding came about through efforts of Sen. Tom Harkin.

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