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June 3, 2004 Drought Stress Doesn’t End in the Field The concern is intense. The planting season is already well underway and crops need moisture. Drought stress is creating conditions that make seasoned farmers and ranchers wonder how the growing season will turn out. It is important to remember that drought stress doesn’t end in the field, so an awareness of how such stress plays out at home can be helpful to managing its impacts, says a professor at North Dakota State University. “Any time that major concerns arise in agriculture, such as weather conditions, the impact reverberates into the personal lives of individuals and families,” says Sean Brotherson, Extension family science specialist with NDSU. “We usually see impacts in at least four areas of an individual’s or a family’s life. The four include money, emotions, body and relationships.” “The biggest stress that people in agriculture tend to deal with is whether they can make ends meet,” Brotherson says. “The first item of importance is making the farm or ranch operation financially viable. But the other end of that financial concern is the family itself and the little expenses such as paying for a child’s summer activities or other small expenditures. Using and following a family budget is critical when such stresses occur.” Brotherson suggests that the next largest source of stress tends to be emotional challenges such as feelings of anger, discouragement or depression. “Drought stress contributes to challenges that can be difficult to manage, which can result in feeling frustrated and discouraged. Men, in particular, need to be willing to do something to process those feelings or talk them over with someone. This may mean going fishing for a couple hours or talking to a spouse or sibling, but you should not let yourself remain isolated or alone in your feelings.” Physical challenges that may result from increased stress are headaches, stomach troubles, back or neck pain, higher blood pressure or other ailments. A medical professional can help deal with these issues. “Physical health is put under strain when general stress exists,” Brotherson says. “If you leave physical concerns unheeded, you may be put in a situation that will increase your stress even more. Don’t wait to get a physical checkup or visit with a medical professional. Your body needs attention when stress exists.” Family relationships or interactions with neighbors and employees can become strained when stress is high. “Research conducted with farm families in North Dakota shows that families and neighbors provide the most support when stress is occurring,” notes Brotherson. “Spouses are listed as most helpful by two-thirds of farmers and their family members, followed by children and neighbors. Parents, other relatives and close friends can also be helpful. Focus on making these relationships positive and understanding. They can become strong webs of support when there is a need.” “By thinking about these areas of stress and taking steps to manage any concerns, it is possible to keep yourself healthy and prepared to deal with the ups and downs of life in farming and ranching,” Brotherson says. ### Source:
Sean Brotherson, (701) 231-6143, sbrother@ndsuext.nodak.edu |
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North Dakota State University |
