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COLUMBIA, Mo. – When a farmer or farm family needs help, signs of stress are often slow to appear, but at other times may be quickly apparent, says Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri Extension assistant professor.
Visible signs such as thinning hair, weight changes or skin breakouts are warning signs from the body that yell, “I need help.” Other signs might be more subtle and not seen until the long-term results can no longer be ignored, says Funkenbusch.
However the symptoms appear, MU Extension offers resources to help farmers and their families.
Those closest to the farmer – friends, extended family members, neighbors, and clergy – may be the last to notice signs of stress because they see the person regularly and the changes are gradual. Less frequent visitors to the farm may be in a better position to notice changes. People in this group may include seed and chemical salespersons, veterinarians and the local cooperative truck driver who fills the propane tank.
“Anyone connected to the farm is in a position to notice signs of stress and be of help to the farmer and farm family,” says Funkenbusch. “Everyone connected in production agriculture or agribusiness can play an important role in helping farmers maintain strong mental health.”
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Funkenbusch pointed to a recent newsletter from Missouri Department of Agriculture listing signs of stress:
- Change in routines. The farmer or farm family stops attending church, drops out of activities or no longer stops in at the local coffee shop or feed store.
- Decline in the care of animals. When animals lose condition, appear gaunt or shows signs of neglect or physical abuse, the farmer may have lost interest in his work.
- Increase in illness. Farmers or farm family members may experience more upper respiratory illnesses (colds, flu) or other chronic conditions (aches, pains, persistent cough).
- Increase in farm accidents. The risk of farm accidents increases due to the fatigue or inability to concentrate. Children also may be at risk if there isn’t adequate child care.
- Decline in appearance of the farm. The farm family no longer takes pride in the appearance of farm buildings and grounds or no longer has the time to do maintenance work.
- Children show signs of stress. Children may act out, decline in academic performance or be increasingly absent from school. They may also show signs of physical abuse or neglect.
If you notice signs of stress in a farmer or a member of the family, reach out to them. Listen attentively and without judgment. Offer to connect them to resources and follow up.
Help is available with someone who understand and knows agriculture. Build coping skills with confidential, no cost, telehealth counseling from a trusted licensed professional who understands agriculture.
Any Missouri farmer, rancher, farmworker, and immediate family member over the age of 16 is eligible. Request services online or call 573-882-4677.
For more information about stress, depression, suicidal intent and how to refer someone for help, you can find resources from MU Extension, North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture at Show-Me Strong Farm Families.