Farmers and Ranchers Encouraged to Manage Stress During Harvest Season

Sep 02, 2025

By Sean Brotherson

Piled-up stress during harvest season can lead farmers and ranchers to develop physical or mental health issues, but they can take steps to reduce stress and create healthy ways to manage it, says a North Dakota State University Extension expert.

“Farm and ranch families often experience pressure, conflict and uncertainty, especially during harvest season, weather challenges or due to other farming concerns,” says Sean Brotherson, Extension family science specialist. “If feelings of frustration and helplessness build up, they can lead to worrisome problems involving spouses or partners, children, parents and other relatives. If left unresolved, these feelings can lead to costly accidents, poor decisions, strained relationships, health concerns and risks, including suicide.”

Using strategies such as controlling events, attitudes and responses can help manage symptoms of stress, according to Brotherson.

Source : ndsu.edu

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