Navigating Uncertainty: Supporting Your Mental Health in Challenging Times
By Lesley Kelly, Farmer and Co-founder of The Do More Agriculture Foundation
As farmers, we’ve always known uncertainty. From weather that’s out of our hands to fluctuating market prices, there are plenty of things that can make this job feel unpredictable. But in recent years, the landscape has shifted even more. Political tensions, trade wars, rising tariffs, and the unpredictability of global markets have added another layer of stress that feels a little harder to manage.
The back-and-forth between our trading partners, coupled with rising input costs and shifting demands, has left many of us feeling uncertain about what’s next. And that’s okay—those feelings are real. We can’t always control the decisions that are made in boardrooms or government offices, but we can take care of ourselves and protect our mental well-being through these times of stress.
Here’s a few tips on how we can navigate these tough moments together:
1. Focus on What You Can Control
One of the hardest things in farming is dealing with the things we can't control. Trade policies, commodity prices, and global supply chain disruptions are all things that we know can impact our livelihoods but are completely out of our hands. It’s easy to feel frustrated, but instead of focusing on the things you can’t change, think about what you can control.
Take a look at your financials, and lean on your trusted advisor to explore risk management strategies.
Make a plan for different market scenarios, and look for ways to improve efficiency on the farm. It’s about doing the best with what’s within your power.
2. Limit News Consumption and Avoid Overwhelming Negativity
It’s important to stay informed, but we also need to protect ourselves from the constant negativity that’s out there. Too much time spent scrolling through news stories or social media posts about trade wars and market downturns can leave us feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
Consider limiting how often you check the news, and take breaks when you start to feel the weight of it all.
Pay attention to the energy around you—spending too much time with negativity can drain you.
Surround yourself with people who lift you up, even if just for a short chat.
3. Stay Connected
Isolation is real in agriculture, especially when the pressure is on. We all know how easy it is to retreat into ourselves when things aren’t going the way we want. But in those moments, staying connected with others—whether it’s other farmers, family, or friends—can make all the difference.
Reach out to local or online farming groups to talk about what you’re going through.
Call a friend or a mentor who understands what you’re facing.
Don’t hesitate to attend industry events or meetings, even if it’s just to feel connected to the bigger picture.
4. Take Care of Your Physical Health
It’s no surprise that our physical health directly impacts our mental health. Stress and uncertainty can take a toll on the body, leading to fatigue, sleepless nights, or even physical aches. Taking care of your body can give you the strength to weather the mental strain.
Make time for physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, stretching, or just moving around the farm.
Be kind to yourself when it comes to rest—farming schedules are demanding, but sleep is crucial.
Fuel your body with good nutrition and stay hydrated.
Taking care of your physical health isn’t just about the body—it’s about building resilience.
5. Be Open About Your Struggles
It’s hard to open up, especially for those of us who were raised to be self-reliant. But struggling in silence only makes the weight heavier. Talk about what you’re going through, whether it’s to your spouse, a trusted friend, or even a professional. There’s no shame in reaching out—it’s a strength, not a weakness.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone you trust. There are confidential hotlines and resources specifically for farmers, and they can help you find the support you need when you need it most.
6. Find Small Wins and Moments of Gratitude
When everything feels uncertain, it’s easy to get lost in the challenges. But sometimes, shifting our focus to the little victories can make a big difference. Take a moment every day to acknowledge something positive—whether it’s finishing a task on your to-do list, sharing a laugh with a neighbor, or simply watching the sunrise.
Start a simple gratitude journal.
Celebrate the small wins, even in difficult years.
Step back and reflect on the things you love about farming such as the sunrises, taking care of the land and animals, working with family, and the pride in growing food that nourishes people.
Final Thoughts
Farming is a world full of uncertainty, but that doesn’t mean we have to let it take over our mental health. By focusing on the things we can control, staying connected with others, and taking care of ourselves, we can weather these tough times with strength and resilience.
You’re not alone in this. Your community is here to support you—whether that’s a neighbor, a friend, or a professional. Reach out when you need to, and don’t forget to take care of yourself, so you can keep moving forward. Agriculture needs you.
If you or someone you care about is feeling the weight of uncertainty or stress and needs someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text the national suicide crisis line 988 or call the National Farmer Crisis Line at 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701).