This week we would like to thank all of the farmers and ranchers who work so hard to bring food to our tables. Unfortunately most of the time these hard working people are not thanked enough. We all have stress with our jobs, but for many of us we don't have the added challenges of weather, trade embargoes, and how that's going to affect the price of their crops this year. While we were at the FFA National Show this year we had the opportunity to speak with Abby Heidenreich from the Purdue Extension Farm Stress Team and how and what they do to help farm families deal with some of these issues.
According to Sean Brotherson, professor and extension family science specialist North Dakota State University. “Farming happens to be one of the more stressful occupations that people engage in in the United States,” and “There’s research that suggests it’s consistently among the top 10 most stressful [and dangerous] occupations.”
Farm families are under increased stress each year. It's becoming chronic and has taken a toll on farmers and ranchers, resulting in mental health concerns. This should concern all of us. Agriculture is the bedrock of our economy and we depend on farmers for our daily needs.
So, as we sit down for our holiday dinner this year, take a moment and thank that farmer or rancher who helped put that food on your table.
Links:
https://extension.purdue.edu/farmstress/tag/abby-heidenreich/
https://bangordailynews.com/2020/01/06/homestead/what-are-the-causes-of-stress-among-farmers/
https://farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/farm-stress-decision-making-during-challenging-times/
https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/publications/kids-family/farm-stress-fact-sheets-stress-management-for-farmers-ranchers
https://www.farmaid.org/blog/fact-sheet/why-farmers-face-unique-threats-from-stress/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tools-for-todays-farmers/id1531729490
