Missouri Department of Agriculture
JEFFERSON CITY – The last few years have been difficult for farm and ranch families. Many are experiencing financial and emotional stress as a result. There are several signs or symptoms when a farmer or farm family is in need of help. These are signs that can be observed by friends, extended family members, neighbors, veterinarians, clergy persons, school personnel or health and human service workers.
These signs include:
- Change in routines: The farmer or farm family stops attending church, drops out of activities or no longer stops in at the local coffee shop or feed store.
- Decline in the care of animals: Cattle may not be cared for in the usual way; they may lose condition, appear gaunt or shows signs of neglect or physical abuse.
- Increase in illness: Farmers or farm family members may expereience more upper respiratory illnesses (colds, flu) or other chronic conditions (aches, pains, persistent cough).
- Increase in farm accidents: The risk of farm accidents increases due to the fatigue or loss of ability to concentrate; children may be at risk if there isn’t adequate childcare.
- Decline in appearance of the farm: The farm family no longer takes pride in the way farm buildings and ground appear, or no longer has the time to do maintenance work.
- Children show signs of stress: Farm and ranch children may act out, decline in academic performance or be increasingly absent from school; they may also show signs of physical abuse or neglect.
Help is available with someone who understand and knows agriculture. Build coping skills with confidential, no cost, telehealth counseling from a trusted licensed professional who understands agriculture.
Any Missouri farmer, rancher, farmworker, and immediate family member over the age of 16 is eligible.
Visit http://muext.us/PSCFarmRanch or call 573-882-4677.
For more information about stress, depression, suicidal intent and how to refer someone for help, check out farm-ranch-stress-checklist
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