Editors' Notebook

I've been seeing a lot of social media posts about burnout in agriculture over the last few days, and honestly, it's hit me harder than I expected. We've all experienced burnout. Even the things that bring us the most joy and love can bring burnout. Maybe it's because I've read and seen too many good people walk away from this industry. Or maybe it's just time we had this conversation because it isn't spoken about enough.

Growing up in agriculture, especially on a grain farm operation, I've learned that farming isn't just a job. It's 24/7 with no days off. I've learned that hard work will solve most problems and complaining doesn't plant or harvest crops, pay bills or fix the weather and markets.

But somewhere in all those lessons on the farm about grit, determination and hard work, we forgot to talk about what happens when the weight gets too heavy to carry.

Burnout in agriculture isn't just about being tired after a long day in the fields. It's lying awake at 3 a.m. wondering if you can afford the new planter that you need; worrying about whether the markets and weather are going to cooperate; concern about how the meeting with the lender(s) is going to go; planning parts runs and so much more.

The honest truth is, we've built an industry culture that celebrates suffering in silence. We wear exhaustion like a badge of honor and measure our worth and success by how much we can endure without breaking. But here's what I'm observing and learning: That mentality is killing us. Literally.

I've lost count how many times in my 22 years of life that I've heard someone say, "Well, that's just farming," when talking about stress, exhaustion, finances, weather and markets.

But here's what's giving me hope: We're finally talking about it.

These posts I've been seeing aren't just people complaining -- they're people being brave enough to admit that something needs to change. That we can love this life and industry and still acknowledge when it's breaking us down.

We need to normalize these conversations. We need to check on each other beyond just asking... "How's your crops looking?" "Do you think we will get $5 corn?" "How much rain did you get last night?"

If you know someone in agriculture, reach out to them. Ask how they're doing. Really ask. And then listen. Really listen. If they don't want to speak with you, encourage and support them in finding someone else then. Sometimes just the simple act of connection can make all the difference in the world.

For more information on rural mental health issues and a list of helpful resources for farmers, ranchers and their families, visit DTN/Progressive Farmer's "Spotlight on Rural Mental Health" page here: https://www.dtnpf.com/….

EllaMae Reiff can be reached at ellamae.reiff@dtn.com

Follow her on social platform X @ellareiff

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