With an estimated 2,709,128 Ohioans currently living in some sort of dry or drought conditions, times are not easy. Unfortunately, with no relief in sight, we could be sitting in this position for quite some time. The map below indicates where each county in Ohio stands in its current dry/drought condition.
Our team at OSU Extension and other professionals around the state of Ohio are working around the clock to monitor the situation and provide resources for on-the-ground support and daily observation of the weather outlook. Click here for more information and resources.
We often forget to check in on our mental health during this time of high stress and anxiety. While many people can cope with the everyday stress of farming, it is important to know it is okay not to be okay. Especially with extreme weather conditions, it can be difficult for any farmer.
There may be no way to control this drought, but we can control how we manage our stress. Here are a few simple ways:
- Recognize the signs of it, which manifest differently in everyone.
- Acknowledge and share with someone that you are feeling
- Ensure that you are getting enough sleep, eating properly, and maintaining good physical
- When you have the time to connect with loved ones, Spending quality time with others boosts your mental health.
What are some of the signs of stress:
- Poor sleeping and/or eating habits
- Feeling overwhelmed by life
- Overly anxious or stressed
- Increased use of drugs and/or alcohol
- Increase in risky behavior
- Overly tired and/or forgetful
- Thoughts of hopelessness
If you have been feeling any of these for more than a few weeks, please reach out to someone. We have your back, and you are not alone in these thoughts. Please talk with someone.
Resources that are available to you:
go.osu.edu/farmstress go.osu/educountyresourceguide
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call, Text, or Chat 24/7 365 Ohio Care Line 1-800-720-9616
Please reach out if you have any questions or need more information to Bridget Britton at 330-365- 8160.
Bridget Britton, MSW, LSW Behavioral Health Field Specialist