Farmers and ranchers across the country are having significant difficulty finding enough hired help to keep their operations producing at peak efficiency. That’s forcing producers and the few workers they do have to pull double-duty, leading to a build-up of extra stress on farms and ranches. Sean Brotherson is a Family Science Specialist with the North Dakota State University Extension Service. He says that’s called a “stress pileup,” and it’s a large load to carry.
That leads to what he calls “stress spillover”.
Brotherson says it’s important for friends and family to watch for signs of stress that the farmer or rancher may be struggling with. He says there are physical, mental, emotional, and relational signs.
Farmers and ranchers can find a lot of valuable resources to help them manage stress, and it’s worth any effort you put in to help take care of yourself first. Brotherson says it’s vital to remember no one is weak for needing help.
He says farmers and ranchers will see a high return when they spend time managing their health and wellness.
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Submitted by Chad Smith
Source: NAFB News Service Staff
Audio provided by NAFB News Service
Audio with Sean (Shawn) Brotherson, Professor and Family Science Specialist with the North Dakota State University Extension Service
