By Robert J. Fetsch, Extension Specialist & Director, Colorado AgrAbility Project,

1. AANNPST11.1506 (Rev. 2.1307a)Colorado AgrAbility Project—Peer Support Train-the-Trainer TrainingJackson, MS By Robert J. Fetsch, Extension Specialist & Director, Colorado AgrAbility Project, Human Development & Family Studies Colorado State University

2. History—AgrAbility Neighbor-to-Neighbor Peer Support Train the Trainer Training 1998-2002—We visited with AgrAbility Staff: Bill Field, Paul Jones, Paul Leverenz, Mary Yearns, Dan Robbins, Cheryl Skjolaas, and others.

3. History—AgrAbility Neighbor-to-Neighbor Peer Support Train the Trainer Training 2000-2003—We found in the research literature 10 stages from denial to joy of life.

4. We found in the research literature10 stages from denial to joy of life. Denial & Shock Mourning & Withdrawal Anger & Blame Bargaining Depression

5. We found in the research literature10 stages from denial to joy of life. Reassessment & Reaffirmation Coping & Mobilization Dialogue Self-Acceptance & Self-Esteem Joy of Life

6. History— 10 stages It’s not a linear process. It’s a dynamic process. Family members too. Let’s be vigilant and refer.

7. History— 2000-2003—We asked questions: How long is realistic to expect farmers/ranchers to take off from work to learn about peer support? What are the core skills that peer support advocates need to learn to provide effective peer support?

8. What Are the Core Skills? • Connect well. • Listen actively. • Problem-solve. • Spot signs of high stress, anger, depression, and suicidal thinking. • Make effective referrals to appropriate professionals.

9. 3 Keys to Effective AANNPST Training: • Screen Well! • Teach Well! • Assess Well!

10. 2003 U. S. Suicides - by State Deaths Per 100,000 Population

11. Suicide rates per 100,000 population by state and US Source: Retrieved October 24, 2006 from http://webapp.cdc.gov/sasweb/ncipc/mortrate.html

12. Suicide rates per 100,000 population by state and US Source: Retrieved October 24, 2006 from http://webapp.cdc.gov/sasweb/ncipc/mortrate.html

13. National Institute of Mental Health Current Suicide Rates in U. S.

14. We use practical handouts and resources.We provide science-based information.We are conducting an evidence-based program effectiveness study of what works in peer support programs with farmers and ranchers with disabilities.

15. How do we teach? 3 ways. • Lecture/cognitive learning. • Role play/experiential learning in dyads/triads. • Self learning on one’s own.

16. From previous research,what do we now know? • That high-dosage training programs work well and are effective with non-farm/ranch groups.

17. From previous research,what do we not know? • Whether 1-2 day peer support trainings are effective with groups of farmers/ranchers with disabilities and caregivers. • CO and OK are poised to find out! • Won’t you join us?

18. How many workshops since inception? • 7/15/2004 AgrAbility Neighbor-to-Neighbor Peer Support Program Training, Denver, CO—7 CO farmers & ranchers with disabilities and caregivers.

19. How many workshops since inception? • 5/10-11/2005 AgrAbility Neighbor-to-Neighbor Peer Support Program Train-the-Trainer Training at the request of Doug Carmon and Cheryl Skjolaas, Kansas City, KS—19 AgrAbility staff participants from CA, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, MI, NE, OK, PA, and SD.

20. How many workshops since inception? • 4/18-19/2006 AgrAbility Peer Advocate Training at the request of Carla Wilhite and Linda Jaco, Stillwater, OK—7-9 OK farmers and ranchers.

21. What feedback did we get from participants?

22. What are some challenges and successes of running this program?

23. What are our future plans, e.g. helping other SRAP’s launch their program?

24. Thank you very much!