Managing Stress on the Farm

Farmers are no strangers to stress. Their livelihood is dependent on factors they cannot control, including weather, market volatility, and government regulations. This planting (or lack of) season is no exception thanks to Mother Nature, and the relentless rain. It is important though, for farmers and their loved ones to prioritize their health, especially in times of difficulty. 

Symptoms of stress can range from headaches and fatigue, to irritability and difficulties concentrating. It is important to recognize signs of stress, and address them before they begin to take a toll on your health and well-being.

The best way to manage or prevent stress is to live a balanced lifestyle, incorporating light exercise and healthy eating habits into your everyday routine. What I found most helpful after another disappointing trip to the rain gauge is to remember the big picture, and try to find the humor in life (including weather-appropriate quotes from my favorite movie, Forrest Gump). If you are struggling to cope with stress, reach out to neighbors, family, friends, clergy members, or mental health professionals.

Remember that each day your mind has roughly 70,000 thoughts — strive to make these positive, productive thoughts.

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). You are your brain. Retrieved from URL https:// healthybrains.org/brain-facts/

Michigan State University Extension. (2018, December 1). How to Cultivate a Productive Mindset. Retrieved from URL https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/how_to_cultivate_a_productive_mindset