Planting season is one of the busiest times of the year for farmers. Growers are building a plan for the growing season and then implementing that plan with many hours spent getting inputs and seed into the soil. With all the hard work of planting season putting a strain on farmers, a lack of sleep combined with long hours can lead to stress.
David Brown of Iowa State University Extension says that although sleep might be limited by long workdays, there are still ways to reduce stress.
When there is down time during the planting season Brown says that farmers should take a few minutes to relax via deep breathing exercises, light exercise, prayer, or meditation. Whatever works best for you.
For longer periods of down time, Brown suggests hobbies or social interaction with others to help reduce stress.
Brown notes that there are several resources available for farmers to help manage stress.
Farmers can also reach out to a farm stress hotline for helpful resources or someone to speak to, including hotlines provided through the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network.
