Rural Report Episode 3: Safeguarding Your Mental Health

Brooklyn Dunn and Jonah Bruer attend the Farm Safety Dinner at Mathis & Gill Farms, put on by Raising Hope.

In this episode, I discussed the impact of mental health on agriculture and FFA members. As a third-year FFA member, I have learned that perfectionism and trying to “do it all” can be extremely stressful. It is important to understand how putting your mental health first is necessary for success, and underperformance is not a reflection of your worth.

Being an FFA member means participating in FFA culture, but as future leaders, it is vital to put yourself first to limit your stress. Passion is important for giving your all to yourself, your chapter, and your community, but if you do not recognize your own worth and limits, you will kill passion with burnout.

Additionally, mental health is not advocated for enough in the world of agriculture. Agricultural workers face many stressors each day, which can cause harm to their mental health.  The added stigma of the “tough farmer” stereotype hinders these workers from talking about what they may be dealing with. Stereotypes such as this have labeled vulnerability as weakness and put shame in seeking help. It is important we encourage our fellow agriculturists to know their strengths, be open and understand that they are not alone.

Fortunately, there are many places where we can seek mental health help. Organizations such as Raising Hope and the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network work to connect farmers with counseling and help them manage stress. Furthermore, online therapy options allow those living in rural areas without local counselors to get help from home.

Overall, as members of FFA and rural communities, it should be our goal to end the stigma surrounding agricultural mental health and promote safeguarding ourselves. It is important to advocate for these issues and understand that each person, including ourselves, is important to many. You matter!