As the winter months continue on, so do the daily demands on cattle producers. Livestock need to be fed, equipment consistently needs to be fixed, and there are probably plenty of committee or board meetings you are attending. All these tasks combined with financial pressures, harsh weather and the shorter daylight hours can bring on stress and maybe some seasonal depression. Farmers and ranchers are a tough bunch, but even we have a threshold of how much we can handle.
The winter blues are a real thing, and we need to be open to acknowledging this for ourselves and those around us. With all the demands on our schedules and pocketbooks, we may feel at the end of our rope. Some may even feel isolated within their own world of concerns. It is sad that farmer/rancher suicide rates are two to five times higher than the national average. While these stressors are real and must be dealt with on a day-to-day basis, another very real thing is the support group around us. Finding support helps individuals know that there are others going through similar challenges and that they are a needed and wanted part of their family, community and business.
Managing stress doesn’t require big changes. Small, consistent habits can make a real difference:
- Stick to a routine. Regular sleep and meals help stabilize mood and energy.
- Stay connected. A quick phone call, coffee with a neighbor or attending a local meeting can ease feelings of isolation. Be involved in what your family and friends are doing.
- Take short breaks. Even five minutes to stretch, breathe or step outside can reset your mindset.
- Find a hobby. Having a small activity that you can do for a short period of time a few days a week gives you something to look forward to and perhaps a sense of accomplishment when you complete something in that hobby.
- Set realistic goals. Focus on what you can control. Weather and markets may be unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be.
- Reach out. Talking to someone – a friend, pastor or counselor – can lighten the load. Resources like the AgriStress Helpline ([833] 897-2474) or the 988 Suicide Lifeline can provide needed support to help you get through those low times in life.
