Speakers will focus on self-care, how to help another in distress, resources

By Waupaca County Suicide Prevention Coalition

Many farmers and other agricultural workers have high levels of depression, anxiety, and even suicide. Waupaca County Suicide Prevention Coalition offers “Grateful for the Growers” on Thursday, Jan. 23, at Rustic Grill Restaurant at Glacier Woods in Iola.

This free workshop is open to agricultural workers and adult family members and counselors, social workers and others in helping occupations.

To register, go here or find the Facebook link here.

Check-in is at 10:30 a.m. and the program runs from 11a.m.-2 p.m., including a free lunch and resource tables. Pre-registration is strongly requested but walk-ins will be allowed if space permits.

Jeff Ditzenberger, keynote speaker, is a former grower from southern Wisconsin who uses his past struggles with suicide to help other people. He travels around the country sharing his message and you can hear him for free in Iola. Nearly 30 years ago, “Ditz” survived his own suicide attempt. In 2015, he founded TUGS (Talking, Understanding, Growing, Supporting) to promote mental health and wellness in rural communities.

Other speakers are Brenda Statz with Farmers Angel Network, Lynae Schott with Wisconsin Farmer Wellness program, and Carissa Weber, a Mental Health Substance Abuse Therapist.

Post any questions at the Facebook link above or email wcspccosuicideprevention@gmail.com and a coalition member will get contact you.