Farm Family Stress and Depression
Adapted by Carol Collar, UCCE Kings County
The following article is a summary of information presented by Dr. Robert Fetsch, a professor at Colorado State University. The presentation was made at the Western Dairy Management Conference last March. You can read Dr. Fetsch’s entire paper in the proceedings at http://www.wdmc.org/proceed.htm
Financial and emotional stress levels are high everywhere, but nowhere greater than among dairy and farm families. Studies have shown that farming is one of the top high stress occupations based on the incidence of stress related diseases (heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers and depression). Economic and market conditions change regularly. The weather is unpredictable. Lack of control over what you pay for inputs and what you receive for outputs can make you feel powerless and lead to high stress levels.
Extensive research has found higher suicide rates among farmers and ranchers than among the general public. In the US, suicide rates for rural men are twice that of their urban counter parts, and the rate is increasing over time. It is important during these tough times to look out for one another. Be alert for signs of stress in your friends, neighbors, your family or even yourself. For example, there may be changes in routines, or an increase in illness. The appearance of the farmstead and care of livestock may decline. There could be an increase in farm accidents or farm children may show signs of stress. Watch for the following signs of chronic, prolonged stress:
- Physical – headaches, ulcers, backaches, eating irregularities, sleep disturbances, frequent sickness, exhaustion
- Emotional – sadness, depression, bitterness, anger, anxiety, loss of spirit or humor
- Behavioral – irritability, acting out, withdrawal, passive-aggressiveness, alcoholism, violence
- Cognitive – memory loss, lack of concentration, inability to make decisions
- Self esteem – feelings like “I’m a failure” or “I blew it…”
The greater number of signs or symptoms, the greater your concern should be. If someone you know is exhibiting the following signs, connect them with professional help:
Depression - sad face, slow movements, unkempt look, feeling hopeless, discouraged, listless, negative thoughts, reduced pleasure in usual activities, people problems, physical problems, guilt and low self esteem (“it’s all my fault…”).
Suicidal intent – severe, intense feelings of anxiety or depression, withdrawn, alone, lack of friends and supports, sense of complete powerlessness, hopeless feelings, alcohol abuse, frequent or constant thoughts with a specific plan in mind, and cries for help including making a will, giving possessions away, or making statements like “maybe my family would be better off without me”.
The first step in helping someone is recognizing signs. But what should you do next? Try to connect with the person you are concerned about. Tell them gently that you are worried about them, ask them to tell you about how things are going, then give them your time and attention and be a good listener. Do not judge. Do not tell them to “just tough it out”. Respond to them with respect, honesty and sincerity. Let them know that it is OK to admit they are having problems and to seek help.
Find out about resources. This website is a helpful resource for locating professional help locally or anywhere in the US: http://www.therapistlocator.net/. All cries for help (certain statements that may indicate a person is considering suicide, but has not decided for sure) should be taken seriously. If you recognize suicidal thinking, call 1-800-SUICIDE for help.