MARION, Ill. — Farming can be stressful. Many face financial problems, price and marketing uncertainties, farm transfer issues, production challenges, and more. Farmers may struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, indecision, or suicidal thoughts, but help is available!
Illinois Extension is partnering with local southern Illinois Farm Bureaus to offer free workshops to help local farmers and their families. Participants can enjoy a free breakfast with fellow farmers and leave with an understanding of the signs and symptoms of chronic stress. Individuals will also receive resources on handling stress for a more productive mindset on the farm. Family Life Educator Robin Ridgley will lead the program.
“Local farmers take care of their communities, and we know this can take a toll on them. From unpredictable weather patterns to the rising cost of goods, farming is stressful,” said Ridgley. “Our Weathering the Storm program is a way to come full circle and provide resources for our farmers to let them know we care about them.”
Each program begins at 8:30 a.m. on the following dates:
- Jan. 10 – Jackson County Extension Office (402 Ava Rd., Murphysboro, IL 62966)
- Jan. 19 – Williamson County Extension Office (1301 Enterprise Way, Suite 60, Marion, IL 62959)
- Jan. 25 – Perry County Extension Office (203 North Walnut, Pinckneyville, IL 62274)
- Jan. 26 – Randolph County Extension Office (1403 N. Hillcrest Drive, Sparta, IL 62286)
- Jan. 27 – Franklin County Extension Office (1212 Route 14 West, Benton, IL 62812)
For more details or to register for one of the workshops, please visit go.illinois.edu/WeatheringTheStorm or contact Robin Ridgley at (618) 993-3304 or rridgley@illinois.edu.
— University of Illinois Extension