A late harvest, plagued by rain, cool temperatures, and snow can put serious stress on farmers and their families.  The Farm Stress Line is there to help.

Many times stress can show itself in ways you might not expect.  Stomach pains, dizziness and headaches, and even back and muscle pain can be symptoms of untreated stress.  The best way to find out if you are indeed affected, and to get help, is to simply talk with someone.  The farm stress line can guide you to seek support from medical professionals, and give you other tools to deal with whatever situation you may find yourself in.

On their website, they offer reminders of things can often make a positive difference.

  • Exercise
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Take time for yourself
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs
  • Don't isolate yourself
  • Separate those things you can control from those that are beyond your control
  • Deal with problems - avoidance only complicates them
  • Focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the negatives
  • Base decisions on accurate information
  • Set priorities and proceed step-by-step.

And most importantly don't try and solve everything at once  Talk to others - Often by talking to a trusted person, you can gain a perspective that may lead to practical solutions. You may come up with alternatives that you have not considered.

The Farm Stress Line number is 800-667-4442.  Call anytime.