Stress and farming – coping tips

Farm life can be stressful and at times a bit depressing.  There are the everyday issues of family life, balancing budgets, planning for the future and keeping up with developments in your area of farming. The added pressures of managing a farm during difficult times like floods, market fluctuations or droughts can sometimes seem overwhelming.

Watch out for stress signs

If you find you:

• Can’t sleep
• Are becoming irritable, angry and bad tempered
• Have started drinking more alcohol
• Are losing your appetite and just not feeling well
• Feel like you are at the end of your tether

If you see or feel these signs, take notice and take action. If you don’t you could become depressed or put yourself in danger.

You need to talk about it   

Many farmers, who are used to working things out for themselves, don’t want to share their problems. But, it’s really important that you talk to family or trusted friends about issues that are upsetting, stressful or difficult. You may be helping someone else as well if you open up and say how you feel. 

Find out how stress affects your body