WASHINGTON—The journey toward wellness starts with “just one step.”
That’s the message that American Farm Bureau Federation is amplifying during Mental Health Awareness Month in May. The organization is encouraging farmers to take “just one step” toward supporting their own mental health or helping someone who is struggling.
The reminder comes at a critical time for many farmers, noted Matt Nuckols, Virginia Farm Bureau safety coordinator.
“May is one of the busiest months for almost all agriculture sectors, which means more deadlines, more stress and less sleep,” Nuckols said. “When living a lifestyle where toughness is a necessity, it's easy to miss the effects of stress and anxiety on your body and behavior.”
Like checking the oil in tractors or greasing equipment, he encourages farmers to periodically check on their state of mind.
“How are they sleeping? Are they more forgetful or irritable, or having new or increasing physical pains? Acknowledging these and making small changes could prevent more serious problems,” Nuckols added.
Having a conversation, going for a walk or drive, taking a few deep breaths, pausing to watch the sunset or asking for help are steps that can have big impacts on one’s mental and physical well-being.
Taking five minutes to look around the field and think about loved ones can be a “powerful redirect” in times of stress, Nuckols noted.
“At the end of the day, focus on what you accomplished instead of what you need to get done tomorrow,” he encouraged.
It’s important not to suffer in silence. Farmers can connect with others who are struggling through Togetherall, an anonymous peer-to-peer online community that empowers farmers and their families to get and give support. Users also can access free family and individual counseling and consultation services and wellness tools.
Farmers also can access free emotional support through The AgriStress Helpline—available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 833-897-2474 to receive direct emotional support, advice and resources from a trained professional.
“Farming is one of the most rewarding but also one of the most stressful jobs, and it’s important to remember to take breaks, practice self-compassion and check in on your friends and family,” said Laura Siegel, AgriSafe health communications officer. “AgriSafe is proud to offer many mental health resources for farmers and ranchers.”
The AgriSafe Network is offering a “QPR for Families and Farm Families” webinar on May 22. Registration is free, and topics will include recognizing and responding to mental health crises using the approach of “Question, Persuade and Refer.” Visit AgriSafe.org to access additional mental health resources, including archived webinars.
Those who know someone struggling can take small steps to lift them up. Listen without judgment, show that you care, encourage professional help, and be patient and consistent.
Signs that a loved one may be at risk include:
- Change in routines or social activities
- Decline in the care of domestic animals
- Increase in illness or other chronic conditions
- Increase in farm accidents
- Decline in appearance of the farmstead
- Decreased interest in activities or events
- Signs of stress in children, including struggling with school
Visit the AFBF Farm State of Mind website for crisis hotlines; treatment locators; tips for helping someone in emotional pain; ideas for starting a conversation; and resources for managing stress, anxiety or depression.
Media: Contact Nuckols at 804-938-2043 or Siegel.