The BARN (Bringing Awareness Right Now) Farmer Dinner Theater: Piloting a Novel Community Mental Health and Well-Being Program

The BARN Farmer Dinner Theater program was designed to address mental health challenges and suicide prevention in rural communities by fostering participatory and culturally sensitive discussions. The program approach empowered participants to see mental health as a community responsibility, reducing stigma. The program's design aligns with findings highlighting the importance of interactive, culturally tailored interventions in rural settings. The study supports expanding the BARN program with trusted organizations like Cooperative Extension Services as facilitators. Future research should evaluate long-term outcomes, including behavioral change and community resilience, to improve the program's impact and sustainability.