Agriculture Mental Health Awareness

Farming is a stressful job. Between an ever-changing environment, policy and regulations, finances, and a public health crisis, having a career in agriculture is more stressful than ever.

It is important for our farmers and their families to know that they are not alone. As a spouse, child, sibling, parent, neighbor, church member, business partner or service provider to someone who works in the agriculture industry, we must be observant and aware when things change.

Below are a few warning signs for someone who is experiencing mental stress:

Feeling anxious or worried
Feeling depressed
Problems sleeping
Emotional instability; irritability
Dramatic change in body weight and/or appetite
Isolation
Feelings of failure
Substance abuse
Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
Poor concentration, confusion
Relationship problems

Don’t let the signs go unnoticed. Listen attentively, talk about what is causing the stress and reach out to a mental health professional. Resources are listed below.