Cowboys' mental health - 11th November 2022

The traditional image of cowboys is of tough, no-nonsense men. However, an increasing number of cowboys and cowgirls are suffering from addictions and find it difficult to talk about their emotions and mental health.

Nowhere is this more pronounced than in the large agricultural states of Wyoming and Montana. They've recorded the highest suicide rates in the US - particularly amongst agricultural workers.

Rand Selle believes it's this traditional image of the tough cowboy which worsens the problem.

Rand Selle: "Cowboys are supposed to be tough. Like, we're, we're born and raised to be independent and not rely on anyone, and a lot of stuff we do is on our own. So, we don't have that communication skill to go elsewhere and talk and share our emotions, and I kind of think a lot of us struggle with that."

Rand felt something had to change following the death of fellow rider Jonn Beer, who died from an addiction to the opioid Fentanyl, which he'd been prescribed after suffering serious injuries bronco riding. Rand formed the group 'No More Empty Saddles', dedicated to creating a safe space for speaking about addiction and mental health issues.

In the US state of Wyoming, where the group's based, there's little access to mental health professionals. Sheryl Foland's a mental health practitioner.

Sheryl Foland: "We don't have resources that you will find in other states. We don't have a mass group of mental health providers across the state or substance use disorder treatment professionals."

'Tom Horn Days', community rodeo events held by the group, bring cowboys together. It's not just a chance to test their riding skills and compete but also offers the possibility to reach out for help.

Sheryl Foland: "I was here early last night, and, and I had a cowboy stop by. He'd been following us on Facebook, and he was OK. He just wanted a place to just talk. And that's what we gave him. And that's why we're here. We don't want to see any more needless death and destruction."

The events help raise funds to create a support network of people who understand the cowboy way of life and to ensure there are no more empty saddles.