Strategies for Resilience and Support
By Deanna Ciaccia
Mental health issues among farmers are increasingly pressing, with nearly 30% of agricultural workers in North America experiencing anxiety or depression.
These challenges do not affect farmers in isolation; they ripple through families and communities, influencing everything from household dynamics to animal care and overall income stability.
The upcoming Advancing Women in Ag Conference (AWC), scheduled for November 17-19, offers a vital platform to address these critical issues. The AWC will feature over 35 expert speakers, the presentations will focus on a number of topics geared specifically towards women.
Several sessions, will share valuable insights into mental health and resilience in the agriculture and food sector. By emphasizing the importance of creating supportive environments within this sector, the conference seeks to foster dialogue and understanding around these challenges.
One of the key sessions will be led by Beverly Beuermann-King, titled "7 Ways to Beat Burnout: Without Quitting Your Job." Her focus on recognizing and combating burnout is especially essential for farmers who often face immense pressures to perform and maintain their operations. Beuermann-King's practical strategies aim to help participants identify burnout early and adopt techniques that promote long-term well-being.
Dr. Alycia Chrenek will delve into the significance of mental fitness in her presentation "Mind over Chatter: Thoughts Matter." This session will promote open conversations about mental health, which can be incredibly beneficial for farming families. By discussing the importance of mental fitness, Chrenek aims to equip attendees with tools to manage farmer mental health proactively.
Rebecca Posthumus and Erica Sayles will introduce the session "Stocking Your Mental Health Toolbox," emphasizing the importance of strong support networks. Such networks are vital for combatting the feelings of isolation that many farmers experience. Their session will focus on building connections that foster resilience and mutual support among agricultural workers.
In addition to the presentations on mental health, there will be a wide variety of informative topics presented throughout the conference.
For those considering career transitions or seeking professional growth, Katie Hunter will provide a "Career Success Kit." This session will equip attendees with essential tools for navigating job searches and pursuing new opportunities within the agriculture and food sectors. Hunter's insights will be invaluable for individuals looking to broaden their career horizons while maintaining a connection to agriculture.
Additionally, Lauren Van Ewyk’s workshop, "The Advice You Likely Didn’t Receive: Connecting in the Back 40," will explore how shared experiences can strengthen resilience within farming communities. This interactive session will encourage participants to reflect on their journeys and the power of community in overcoming challenges.
These speakers and sessions are just a glimpse of the rich conversations happening at AWC. By attending, participants can engage in meaningful discussions, share personal experiences, and gain insights crucial for fostering a supportive environment in agriculture and the food sector.
Click here to register today for the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference.