December 27, 2023 - After reading an article about Farmer Angel Network, Dr. Chris Williams of Danville, Virginia, was inspired to write and share the below song lyrics. With 40 years working in rural medicine, retired Dr. Williams shared, "From my experience I’ve found that men of a certain age who experience depression often deny that they have a disease, yes a disease, not a character flaw or weakness.
Men, especially men, be they Farmers, Truckers or Physicians deny that they are ill and profound symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, mood swings and even suicidal ideation are common affecting over 25% of all men in their lifetime.
They deny that they are ill, yes ill, and keep their distress to themselves. Often they will 'self medicate' with alcohol or drugs. Failure to act on these symptoms when they are more medically manageable leads to severe disability and even suicide.
Because there is such a stigma about depression and mental illness among men of a certain age they refuse to recognize symptoms early."
The Farmer Angel Network
He hides the pain behind his smile
Ain’t been himself , for quite some time
No one to talk to - he’s not OK
Can’t find the right words has little to say
He Never complains - works hard every day
Always Took the hit to make the play
In the farmer’s world things can go bad
trouble sleeping -he’s mad or sad
Drinking too much and hoping for rain
Leaning on whiskey to ease that pain
Afraid to face what’s going on
So he wrote it down in this country song
Chorus
Depression lies says hope is lost
Nothing left only those Dark thoughts
World’s so bleak - can hardly speak
Can’t get out of bed - too weary to weep
Down and done, you’re not the only one
Ask for help fore’ you reach for a gun
Depression’s a killer - that’s a fact
Go See your Doctor - get your life back
This farmer he’s in trouble
It’s not weak to ask for help
This Farmer he has loved ones
Call the Farmer Angel Network
This hurting man knows he’s in Trouble
Face the truth, even heroes struggle
Takes a few months but this’ll pass
No cure in denial or a whiskey glass
Feeling so worn he can hardly work
Call the Farmer Angel Network
Go see your Doctor say what’s going on
Soon you’ll be yourself singing your old songs
Repeat Chorus
Thank you to Dr. Williams for your time, effort and meaningful words to help break the stigma around mental health. If you are interested in putting these lyrics to music, please contact Farmer Angel Network at farmerangelnetwork@gmail.com.
