1. Farming and Mental Health

2. Why is farming stressful? Fluctuating market conditions Unpredictable weather Large debt load Long hours Crop yield uncertainty Fear of failure

3. Increased risk of injury High tech machinery Machinery breakdown Livestock issues Toxic chemicals

4. Physical symptoms of stress Stomach aches Increased blood pressure Headaches Clenched teeth Rapidly beating heart Weight loss

5. Emotional symptoms of stress Impatience Depression Low self-esteem Emotional Easily frustrated Tearful Withdrawn Moody

6. Behavioral symptoms of stress Increased smoking and/or drinking Difficulty adapting to new or changing situations Difficulty sleeping Communication problems Verbal or physical abuse

7. Stress management Recognize the difference between stress and stressor

8. STRESSOR: Something that creates a demand on time and/or resources. Machinery breakdown Weather Fluctuating market STRESS: How you respond to the demand or stressor Increased heart rate Impatience Drinking

9. Control stress Plan ahead Set daily priorities Visualize Plan breaks Assign tasks Simplify your life

10. Other stress reducers Stay positive! Spend time with the family Exercise Increases heart rate Weight control Leads to a more positive outlook Set personal, family and farming goals

11. Eat a balanced diet Helps us to function better Eat well-balanced, moderate sized meals Skipping meals leads to a lack of concentration Eating too much leads to weight gain putting yourself at greater risk for injury

12. Seek help from others Healthcare professional Churches Technical schools or colleges Social Services