Spring is often a reminder that time is fleeting, and seasons change. No matter how cold and dark it gets, light is always around the corner. However, spring also comes with its own added stressors for dairy farmers. The list of tasks grows by the day, alongside your crops, and they are all dependent on weather, machinery working correctly, and up-and-down market conditions.
As we approach Mental Health Awareness Month in May, and to help manage stressful moments on the farm this spring, here are a few tips from producers and industry professionals:
1. Take a breather outdoors and make time for mindful moments. “Spring is a great time to step outside and take in the sights and sounds of nature. While you are doing chores, checking fields, repairing equipment, and all of the other busy tasks of spring, take an additional few minutes each day to take a walk, breathe deeply, and absorb the beauty of your surroundings. Stress often comes from feeling like there’s always more to do. If you take short breaks, you can stay present in the moment. Whether it’s soaking in the sunshine, feeling the earth beneath your hands, or watching the changing landscape, these little mindful moments can help calm your nerves.” – Monica McConkey, rural mental health specialist
2. Spend a few minutes just talking. “I think we take for granted how incredibly fortunate we are to be present in each of these seasons as we go through life’s journey. We get busy, overwhelmed, and sometimes even frustrated by the things weighing us down. We don’t stop and take in the sunset, or take a long walk with a friend, or have meaningful conversations with our kids. A couple of nights ago, my youngest and I spent about 45 minutes just talking about the Beatles songs and which ones he liked. It may not have meant anything to him, but it meant the world to me.” –Jayne Sebright, executive director at the Center of Dairy Excellence
3. Find ways to prioritize family time. “Over the years, we’ve been able to start hiring some help [on the farm]. It was an intentional investment, but it was scary because it does affect our bottom line. However, our marriage is healthier, our individual lives look healthier, our family time has increased, and our children are happier. It’s a price we’re willing to pay. Our employees are what’s making it possible for us to continue farming — and continue to prioritize family and then business.” –Kendra Nissley, Pennsylvania dairy farmer
4. Take a moment to be proud of your hard work. “Farming is an opportunity for my family to connect deeper with each other because we are out in the barns and the fields working together. For that, I am proud. This is hard work, and some days are even harder than you could imagine. I am thankful for the strength that we can get up the next day and continue to nurture and grow our animals, crops, and relationships.” –Amy B., Pennsylvania dairy farmer
5. Celebrate the small victories. “Springtime brings new life and the promises of growth. Celebrate small successes, like the first sprout of a new crop or the arrival of a new animal. These milestones can remind you of how far you’ve come and help put challenges in perspective.” – Monica McConkey, rural mental health specialist
The Center for Dairy Excellence has farm stress resources available to dairy farmers, including a list of hotlines, articles to help, and posters and rack cards to display for your dairy team. Visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/stress to learn more.
