Stress has always been something that farmers have dealt with but recently stress and its effects on mental health have become a topic of discussion. Clint Thompson stated in his recent publication about the awareness of rural stress that “Farmers are an extended family for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension agents throughout the state, and agents are uniquely positioned to raise awareness about rural stress and mental health concerns for Georgia farmers.”
Clint’s publication can be found here: https://newswire.caes.uga.edu/story.html?storyid=8195&story=Rural-Stress
Extension agents are not health care professionals and we can’t pretend to be, but we are here to provide support and want to help producers anyway we can. Stress and mental health issues are real in Agriculture and are more prominent in the areas affected by natural disasters such as ours these past few years. There are plenty of resources available that can help you cope with stress. Sometimes it helps just to get it off your chest. I am always here to listen.
GDA’s 6 Steps to Ag Recovery start’s with this statement: “If you or someone you know struggles to cope with strong feelings a few weeks/months after an incident, or experiences continued interference with normal functioning, get help by calling the Georgia Crisis and Access toll-free at 1-800-715-4225.
Here are some resources Josh Grant (Crisp County Extension Agent) compiled. Click the links to view.
Staying Healthy on the Farm – VT Wellness Worksite Resource
Heat-Related Illness – Southeastern Coastal Center
Back Pain – National Farm Medicine
Dust & Molds – National Farm Medicine
Controlling Risk Factors for Heart Disease – UGA Extension
7 Ways to Control Your High Blood Pressure – UGA Extension
Tips for Talking with Your Health Care Provider – National Institute of Mental Health (NIH)
6 Steps to Ag Recovery – Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA)
5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain – NIH
A “Primer” on Farm Stress Resiliency – ISU Extension and Outreach
Stress – Michigan State University
Coping with Disaster in the Agricultural Community – GDA
Mental Health and the Impact on Wellness for Farm Families – AgriSafe Network
Please reach out to me if I can be of assistance or just to listen (229-392-0231)
Justin