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Mental Health on the Farm

 

Tomorrow will be different.  It was just that one thing that got me out of sorts today.  The stigma that surrounds our mental state often pushes people to believe that there is no other way to feel or that it’s not a big deal.  That couldn’t be farther from the truth.  Our mental health plays a huge role in our personal relationships, business ventures and overall physical wellness.

Feelings of stress and anxiety are inevitable especially when you work in a frequently changing environment such as farming.  According to the Canadian Mental Health Association of Ontario the rates of suicide and other mental health related issues are much higher in people who work in the Agricultural Industry compared to others.  Life on the farm can be very rewarding, however, it is often hard for a farmer to take time off or even step back for a moment to reset.

Types of Mental Health Issues

There are many different types of mental health issues and their severity will vary based on the individual and circumstance. Here are just a few of the most common types:

Stress – the body’s natural reaction to a situation that is uncomfortable. If not managed our levels of stress can build and cause a huge strain on our ability to think and act clearly

Anxiety & Panic Disorders – often triggered by an individual event or experience. Individuals may constantly worry about everyday situations which can lead to difficulty concentrating and restless sleep.

Depression – a consistent feeling of a low emotional state over an extended period.  Depression if left untreated can lead to feelings of guilt, insignificance and difficulty concentrating.

Farmers are tough, down to earth, resilient people and for most farming is a way of life, not just a job.  They put their work ahead of their own well being and are work in a very unpredictable industry.  They often are dealing with numerous factors outside of their control including severe weather, changing market conditions, and managing disease & livestock.

Recognizing Negative Mental Health

It is often very hard to diagnose someone with a mental illness without the advice from a licensed physician.  However, there are some behaviours that if they become frequent enough can have long term implications on our physical and mental health.

  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Major changes in eating habits and/or excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs
  • Constantly feeling sad or down, sleeping or having low energy
  • Prolonged feelings of irritability, confusion, anger, fear, or hostility

Knowing the difference between regular behaviour and signs of mental illness isn’t always easy.  These signs and symptoms should serve as a guide to open a dialogue with that person or a health care provider to help manage our mental state.

How can I help?

  • Listen to what they have to say; mirror good listening habits (eye contact, be responsive)
  • Talk about ways to improve their mental health and avoid providing a diagnosis
  • Be supportive and show that you are there to help in whatever ways they need
  • Encourage or offer to help them seek professional advice

Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

Everyone can take small steps to improve their mental health, including:

Set goals – doing so helps us plan. Small wins can boost confidence and well being greatly.

Write things down – keeping track of how you feel during the day and your reaction to certain events can improve your overall self awareness

Exercise – whatever form you choose (walking, weights, playing with grandchildren) it can be a great mental health booster

Get Enough Sleep – always easier said than done, but getting between 7 – 9 hours each night can help your brain refresh and recharge

Strong Support Network – healthy relationships with friends, family and co-workers can help your confidence & sense of self value

Farmers work in a very volatile environment with limited control over many factors that contribute to the success or failure of their operation.  With long work hours, uncertain weather conditions, machinery problems and financial hardships all working against them.  If you know or think you know of someone that is struggling reach out to them and offer a lending hand or even just an ear to listen.  Small actions can make the world of difference to many people.

You can find a list of farm and agricultural specialized mental health resources here on our website.