For the millions of Americans who turn to their gardens for solace, purpose, or simply the joy of nurturing life, the world of herbs and plants offers a unique kind of therapy. Yet, even in these vibrant communities, an unspoken challenge persists: the mental health of those who devote their time and energy to caring for others—be it plants, people, or both.

It’s a paradox that’s often overlooked. The herbalist, the educator, the community organizer—roles that demand patience, resilience, and boundless optimism—are not immune to stress, burnout, or even the darkness of despair. According to Frank King, a nationally known speaker whose journey from comedy stages to suicide prevention advocacy has inspired thousands, the first step toward healing is permission: permission to discuss what hurts.

“Gardening is about tending to what’s growing and what’s struggling,” King says. “But what about the people doing the tending? Who’s checking in on them?”

King advocates for a new kind of conversation in the horticultural world—one rooted in compassion, candor, and a touch of humor. While the stigma around mental health and suicide remains stubbornly persistent, particularly in close-knit or rural circles, King’s approach is to meet people where they are. He shares not only his own story of surviving depression and suicidal ideation but also practical tools for recognizing risk and reaching out.

The statistics are sobering: suicide remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., and those in caregiving or teaching roles often face elevated risks of stress-related illness. Add the isolation of field work or the pressure of running community programs, and it’s easy to see how even the most resilient among us can feel overwhelmed.

Yet, there is hope—and it blooms in the smallest of gestures. “Sometimes it’s as simple as asking, ‘How are you, really?’ and being willing to listen,” King says. By normalizing these conversations, herbalists and educators can foster environments where vulnerability is not weakness but a sign of strength.

King’s message resonates beyond the lecture hall. Attendees leave his sessions not only with new knowledge but with scripts and strategies; a sense that they, too, can be the catalyst for change in their circles. As the herbal community prepares for another season of growth, perhaps the most important seeds to plant are those of empathy and understanding.

After all, tending to our own mental wellness is not just self-care—it’s essential for the flourishing of the entire garden.