UGA's Annual Farm Stress Summit is Underway as Farmers Brace for Dip in Annual Gains

By Sofi Gratas

Agriculture is Georgia’s largest industry but it can also be stressful for those who work in it. To address this, the University of Georgia Extension is hosting its annual Farm Stress Summit Wednesday — for the first time, in North Georgia. 

The summit builds off research that shows a need for better resources to address physical and mental well-being for farmers.

“We have a lot more Georgia data to lend and touch on than we did at the beginning,” said Mark McCann, assistant dean for the University of Georgia extension office

A study published in 2019 showed an increased risk of suicide among Georgia farmers, many of whom said they wouldn’t know how to manage suicidal ideation. 

Subsequent research done by surveying farmers show top stressors include weather events such as hurricanes, unexpected financial burdens and work/life balance. 

Georgia’s Behavioral Health Commissioner Kevin Tanner will give the keynote at the summit this year. 

McCann said the summit, this research and partnerships between the university and state agencies have made it easier to talk openly and get help.