Ranching in the West: Is it Hazardous to your Health?

Randy R. Weigel, Ph.D.

This presentation will hypothesize that conditions in the West and ranching culture, including the rural geography, image of the cowboy, the social fabric of the rural lifestyle, and the “health” of agriculture, can negatively impact the delivery of rural health and the attitude of ranchers and farmers toward seeking help for personal problems. Strategies that are used to improve the availability and acceptance of rural mental health services will be highlighted. This presentation is not meant to diminish the benefits of the quality of life in the West-but asks, “At what price?”