During the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s annual convention in Des Moines, I had the chance to visit with Dr. Larry Tranel of Iowa State University (ISU). Dr. Tranel is a dairy specialist and psychologist. He held an educational session about managing farm stress.
Audio: Full Interview with Dr. Larry Tranel
Stress has been a major factor in agriculture in general, especially in the dairy industry. Dr. Tranel talks about the stress being faced in agriculture, and the tough choices having to be made.
Tranel says many times farm men and women handle stress differently.
Dr. Tranel reminds us that stress is a part of life. The problem isn?t always the stress, but more in how we deal with it.
Tranel talked about ways we can cope with our stresses. There are a variety of different tactics, including breathing and sublimation.
Dr. Tranel also reminds farmers who are facing this stress, there are resources available to help you.
The ISU stress management resource packet can be found here.
