Oct 2, 2017

Free online course targets stress management

Stress can take a toll on the body’s physical and mental wellbeing with potentially disastrous results. But growers and their families can manage stress by developing the right mindset with free online tools created by Michigan State University (MSU) Extension.

Weathering the Storm: How to Handle Stress on the Farm is designed to help farm families gain a better understanding of the signs and symptoms of chronic stress and cultivate a more productive mindset. This MSU Extension online, self-paced course allows participants to access this information in a comfortable setting at their own convenience.

“We’re hoping this new digital format makes it easier for farmers and their families to access these helpful tools and learn to cope with the ever-changing business of farming,” said Suzanne Pish, an MSU Extension educator specializing in social-emotional health.

This free online module, is self-paced and takes approximately one to two hours to complete. The course is broken into four manageable sections with step-by-step instructions on how to complete each lesson. Each section features interactive activities, photos, surveys, audio and video to enhance the learning experience.

For more information about managing stress, contact your local MSU Extension office for available programs or to request a program. The MSU Extension Farm Information Resource Management (FIRM) Team also works with farms to assist in financial analysis and options for the farms facing financial difficult times. Visit http://msue.msu.edu/managingfarmstress to access additional resources. Financial decision tools and resources along with contact information can be found on the FIRM Team website.