Holding On in the Heartland

This week on Grit and Grace in the Heartland, we step into a conversation that is both difficult and deeply important. Mary and Leah sit down with Morgan Cole of Cole Canyon Farm to talk about mental health, suicide, and the realities of life in agriculture.

Morgan shares her story as a veteran, a mother, and a first generation farmer building a life in Montana. What comes through immediately is her honesty. She speaks openly about living with PTSD, navigating dark moments, and the long road of learning how to keep going. Her experience reflects a truth many people in agriculture know well. The highs can be incredibly meaningful, but the lows can feel overwhelming and isolating.

Farming plays a complex role in Morgan’s life. It is her peace and her purpose, but it also brings stress, uncertainty, and loss. Caring for animals, facing unpredictable weather, and managing financial pressure all take a toll. At the same time, working the land gives her structure, connection, and a reason to get up every day.

The conversation also explores the broader mental health crisis in rural communities. Agriculture has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. Add in the experiences many veterans carry, and the weight becomes even heavier. Access to care can be limited, and too often people feel like they have to handle everything on their own.

One of the strongest themes in this episode is the importance of community. Whether it is family, friends, or even a stranger willing to listen, connection matters. Morgan speaks powerfully about reaching out, being honest about struggles, and breaking the silence that often surrounds mental health.

There is also a focus on raising the next generation with resilience and awareness. Teaching kids where their food comes from, allowing them to experience both the good and the hard, and modeling accountability all play a role in building stronger, more grounded people.

This episode is a reminder that strength is not about pretending everything is fine. Strength is asking for help, showing up for others, and choosing to stay even when it is hard.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can also contact their local VA or the Veterans Crisis Line for immediate help.

You are not alone, and your story matters.