"Your Brain on Stress" by John Shutske, UW-Division of Extension
Given the variety of ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry, it comes as no surprise that Wisconsin farmers and their families are experiencing extreme amounts stress. While it is normal for everyone to experience stress at some point in their lifetime, prolonged stress can negatively impact you mentally and physically. John Shutske, a professor and agricultural safety and health specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Division of Extension, outlines how stress affects the body and coping with increased mental pressure in this “Rural Realities” podcast episode.
Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a 50 years of agriculture experience collectively, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial planning services, mediation/arbitration, herd-based diagnostics, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services are available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.
If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 WI Farmer Wellness Hotline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. Ongoing in-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.