Agriculture + Lifestyle

It's Okay to Not Be Okay-Nurturing Our Mental Health

Posted on August 22, 2024 8:24 AM

Growth is vital in the world of agriculture. As important as it is to nurture and tend to our crops, the same effort should be applied to maintaining our mental health. We all have room to grow and seeking help is a sign of strength.

“When you share with others, it kind of gives you this sense of freedom. Like that wasn’t so hard after all to get rid of that burden.” 

Have you ever asked yourself why there is such a stigma surrounding mental health? No one thinks less of you when you have an ailment that you can physically see. You’re not weak or less than when you are diagnosed with high cholesterol or cancer. Just because we can’t physically see it, doesn’t mean our brain health is any less important than our overall physical health. By talking about it, we’re breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Because sometimes you need more than just small talk. When the weight of the farm feels heavy, remember you’re most likely not alone in those feelings. Your neighbors are probably feeling something similar, but you won’t know unless someone talks about it. 

“I’ve been in this 30 plus years, and the biggest disaster I ever made early on was not realizing that if I’d opened my mouth and said something to my neighbor, they probably were experiencing the same thing.”

96% of polled farmers say they’re stressed, it’s not JUST you. We all know farmers face immense challenges daily, and just because you’ve chosen your occupation doesn’t mean you have to carry those challenges or stresses by yourself. You can ask for help. You don’t have to carry the heaviness alone. Lean on your neighbors for a chat and remember we’re stronger together. When you do talk about your struggles, you may be surprised to learn others can relate. Lean on each other for support. 

“It is hard to say, I don’t know what I’m doing here. It’s hard to say, I need some help. It’s hard to say, I feel like I’m sinking.” 

Days in farming are long, but they don’t have to be lonely. Farming isn't just about crops and livestock, it's about community. Call 988 if you need someone to talk to, help is available 24/7. Your neighbors are a source of strength too and remember, it's okay to not be okay. 

“Generational farming, while it’s wonderful, people don’t realize that it’s also a lot of pressure, which creates enormous stress.” 

For more information visit https://988ga.org/farmstress