Given the variety of ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry, from low prices and uncertain markets to inclement weather and COVID-19, it’s no surprise Wisconsin farmers and their families are experiencing increased stress.
To provide relevant information and resources on this important topic and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues in rural communities, the DATCP has created a new audio podcast series called “Rural Realities.”
Jayne Krull, director of DATCP’s Farm Center said “The goal of the podcast is to provide farmers, farm families and everyone in the agriculture sector with information and techniques to decrease stress in their lives and navigate the various challenges in farming.”
Dates, topics and speakers for the first five podcasts are:
- June 22 – “Breaking the Stigma of Farmer Mental Health,” Renee Sutkay, Journey Mental Health
- June 29 – “Your Brain on Stress,” John Shutske, University of Wisconsin – Division of Extension
- July 6 – “Navigating Change When the World has Changed,” Dianne Vielhuber, author and pastor
- July 13 – Discuss the “Undiscussabull,” Elaine Froese, farm transition specialist
- July 20 – “Farm Financials: When to Reach Out for Help,” Paul Dietmann, Compeer Financial
The first episode has been posted, and can be found at https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Growing_WI/FarmCenterOverview.aspx
