Stress and Suicide

About the Series

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

Let's discuss something important—the challenges we might face on the farm. It's acceptable to admit that things can get overwhelming. In our farming community, stress sometimes leads to something more profound, such as feelings of depression or even thoughts of not wanting to go on.

Recognizing these signs is an important step; you don't have to take it alone. If you've been feeling sad, talking about suicide, or even just wanting to be left alone, it's okay to ask for help. Have you noticed changes in your behavior or an increased use of alcohol or drugs (Williams and Fetsch, 2018)? These signs are your body’s way of saying, "Hey, let's talk to someone about this."

You don't have to hide what you're going through. If these feelings don't go away and begin to affect your daily life, contact someone you trust. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2020). Your family doctor is a great start. They can connect you with the support you need.

Remember, there's a whole community here ready to lend an understanding ear and a helping hand. Don't hesitate; your well-being matters, and we're here for you.

Signs and Symptoms of Suicidal Ideation

(Source: Michigan State University Extension, 2020)

• Talking about suicide—directly or indirectly
• Obtaining the means, such as buying a gun
• Wanting to be left alone
• Experiencing mood swings
• Feeling trapped
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Giving away belongings
• Appearing disheveled, unkempt

Field Stories: Confronting Stress

A Clearfield County farmer shared, "It is a never-ending struggle to keep my head above water on the farm that started catching up with me when my health worsened. While it wasn’t the easiest thing to do, I found help by talking to others, including asking for help from my family. They were willing to help me find solutions and share the workload. Now, I realize that my family and friends are willing to support me and that asking for help, though hard, is sometimes necessary."

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

Strategy: Staying Fit

(Source: University of Vermont Extension, n.d.)

The physical demands of farming often lead to back and joint pain, making exercise essential. Relying solely on pain medication, particularly opioids, can lead to dependency. Here are simple exercises to prevent injuries and reduce reliance on medication:

• Tractor Seat Trunk Rotation: Turn your upper body gently while seated in the tractor, using the steering wheel for support to loosen the spine and lower back.
• Truck Bed Leg Stretches: Stretch one leg at a time, using the tire tread or truck bed for support, targeting hamstrings and calf muscles. Stretch one leg at a time by placing it on the tire tread or bumper, leaning forward slightly.
• Overhead Arm Stretch: Stand next to the tractor or truck, reach both arms above the head, stretching the back, ribs, and shoulders.

Perform these stretches slowly and gently to prevent exacerbating injuries. Hold each stretch as tolerated and repeat as needed. Prioritizing exercise can reduce the impact of farm work on the body and lessen the need for pain medication. Always talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise routine!

Safety First

(Source: Brown and Fetzer, 2023) 

Have you ever heard of lockout/tag out (LOTO)?

It is a safety step that involves placing a safety lock on your equipment to prevent accidents. On farms, especially around grain bins, it’s crucial! Before you enter a grain bin to make repairs, turn the power off and use LOTO. This simple step prevents someone else from accidentally turning on the power while you’re working. But remember, safety is a team effort. New and seasoned workers need access to LOTO stations and training. Along with LOTO, wear your personal protective equipment, including a respirator, earplugs, eye protection, and fall protection. Also, keep your equipment in good working condition!

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

Brown S, and Fetzer L. 2023. "Lockout/Tag Out to Reduce Ag Injuries and Fatalities." Penn State Extension.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). I'm So Stressed Out! Infographic (NIMH Identifier No. OM 20-4319). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 11, 2023.

University of Vermont Extension. (n.d.). "Exercises and Stretches for People Who Do Farm Work." Farmer Daily Stretching Program.

Williams R. T. and Fetsch R. J. 2018. Farm and ranch family stress and depression: A checklist and guide for making referrals. Department of Human Development & Family Studies, 410 Behavioral Sciences Building, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1570.