Low dairy prices have forced dairy farmers to make decisions about the future of their farm. Farmers have had to make decisions based on their financial situation whether to stick it out or to exit the industry. Psychologist and Iowa State University Extension Dairy Specialist Larry Tranel says the decisions are difficult and often take a toll on mental health.

Because of the structure of a family dairy farm, where family members work together, often several generations, there’s a close bond to the family and the family’s dairying...