Farming demands bravery and resiliency, but there's still a stigma around admitting your challenges and asking for help. Harvest time especially equates to all sorts of pressures on time, finances, relationships and more.
Upon speaking with Agriculture Wellness at both Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show and The International Plowing Match recently, they reported that assistance, education and awareness of mental health and supports is rising in the ag community. More people are aware of the programs and are using them.
Please seek professional help when needed. Everyone can benefit from mental health advice during their lifetime.
Mental wellness self-help tips:
- Exercise regularly and eat well-balanced meals.
- Limit intake of stimulants such as coffee, pop and tea.
- Avoid cigarettes, alcohol and other drugs.
- Take a stress break regularly. Climb down from your tractor and stretch or do a favorite exercise.
- If stressed try to reflect or daydream for 10 minutes. Close your eyes and take a short mental vacation to a place you really enjoy to decompress.
- Look for humour.
- Balance work and play.
- Find someone to listen to your worries and frustrations.
Finally take time for family, laughter and a break from the old routine. Even if it is in your back forty.
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