Stress and Distress

About the Series

Welcome to the third fact sheet in our series, offered by Penn State Extension! In this series, you'll discover helpful insights, practical strategies for implementing important safety protocols, and advice and techniques for achieving optimal personal health and wellness.

Farmers constantly balance the demands of farm life and personal obligations, grappling with unpredictable weather, market fluctuations, and adversities such as natural disasters (Michigan State University [MSU] Extension, 2020). The degree of control they have over these stressors determines the type of stress they experience. Chronic stress or distress arising from prolonged exposure to these challenges can result in severe health issues such as anxiety, depression, a weakened immune system, and an increased susceptibility to diseases like cancer (Adams and Epel, 2007). Therefore, farmers must prioritize their mental and physical well-being, seeking assistance when necessary to manage these pressures effectively.

It is essential to know about how your body responds to stress. You've probably heard of the "fight or flight" response. It's our body's natural reaction to challenges or risks involving the release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Although cortisol serves various bodily functions, excessive stress can harm your mind and body (Kandhalu, 2013). People handle stress differently—what overwhelms one individual might be considered an exciting challenge by another. The key lies in directing your energy and thoughts toward solving problems. It boils down to your coping mechanisms and perspective.

Remember, taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial. Chronic stress, the kind that sticks around due to prolonged challenges, can lead to serious health issues. Don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or in a crisis, call 988 or text 741741 for help.

Signs and Symptoms of Stress

(Source: Windon et al., n.d.)

• Gastrointestinal issues
• Grinding/clenched teeth
• Impatience
• Depressed mood
• Trouble concentrating
• Pessimistic attitude
• Withdrawal from others
• Impulsive buying

Field Stories: Confronting Stress

Tom and Janette were going through a hard time as a family. Tom's father died unexpectedly at an early age, which left the two of them (who were also dealing with the stresses of being young parents) to run the family farm. At the time, corn and soybean prices were low and kept dropping. They had a lot of discussions about how to pay the bills, spend time with each other, and keep food on the table.

During their struggles, a pivotal moment arrived when their problems became apparent to their children. "It hasn't been easy, but our children's desire for family unity pushed us to move forward, learning the importance of resilience and unity from our own kids."

Strategy: Resilience

(Source: Payne, n.d.)

Resilience is like your superpower for handling tough times and bouncing back stronger. It's all about adaptability and staying strong even when things get challenging. Beth Payne, a trainer and consultant, has observed that people and teams with this resilience superpower are fantastic at dealing with change, working together, and coming up with great ideas.

Guess what? You don't have to be born with it; you can learn how to be resilient. Payne shares five excellent tips for building resilience:

1. Take Care of Yourself: Make time for breaks and set limits to avoid burning out.
2. Have a Problem-Solving Mindset: Focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
3. Find Meaning: Reflect on what gives your life purpose and direction.
4. Build a Support System: Surround yourself with people who lift you up.
5. Stay Positive: Look for the bright side and celebrate small victories.

Safety First

(Source: Murphy and Harshman, 2022)

Transport Grain Safely

Transporting grain from fields to farms and farms to markets has changed over the years. It shifted from using strictly tractor and wagon units to using various large trucks and trailers. Modern farm dump trucks and trailers use a hydraulic hoist to dump their loads.

Prevent Tip-Overs

Dump trucks and trailers can be unstable when their beds are raised, especially on uneven ground. The bigger the truck or slope, the higher the chance that it will tip over. To minimize this danger, ensure the load's center of gravity stays centered. Also, be careful about the bed unexpectedly lowering, which can be dangerous for workers. To avoid an incident, trucks and trailers should have lift arm supports that prevent the bed from falling.

Watch for Power Lines 

Be cautious around overhead power lines on farms! Incidents happen when a raised dump bed touches a power line, especially when the truck moves forward with the bed up. Thankfully, the driver is usually safe inside the truck due to insulation from the tires. However, simultaneously stepping out and touching the ground and truck can be dangerous. Stay safe and aware!

For More Information

Call

• AgriStress Helpline: 833-897-2474 (24/7).
• National Suicide Hotline: 988.
• Rural Response Hotline:
  800-464-0258 Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Free personal counseling and financial/legal services.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Listen

Penn State Extension hosts a concise, practical, real-talk podcast on farm stress.

Visit

For more information about this publication or the Farm Stress initiative, see Penn State Team Responding to Farm Stress.

References

Michigan State University Extension. 2020. [PowerPoint]. "Communicating with Farmers Under Stress."

Murphy D, and Harshman W. 2022. "Farm Dump Truck and Trailer Safety." Penn State Extension.

Payne B. (n.d.). "How to Make Resilience Your Superpower." Payne Resilience Training & Consulting.

Windon S, Plaza CH, Spackman AE, and Robotham D. (n.d.). "The Farmer Stress Management Toolbox Part 2." Penn State Extension.