Recent rains have eased the strain of drought on much of the Midwest's farmland, but the strain on the Midwest's farmers remains a major concern. As disappointing harvests become a reality for many, the financial and emotional impacts of the drought may lead some farm families into crisis.
The goal of this one-hour webinar is to provide Extension educators, other agriculture professionals, and farm families with basic resources to address mental/behavioral issues related to the drought. Topics include:
Mental health issues likely to be encountered by drought-stressed farmers, such as depression, anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts and actions, and substance abuse
Proper identification of signs and symptoms
Appropriate responses when interacting with farm family members
Referral sources for additional assistance
Training opportunities available through Mental Health First Aid www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org
Our Presenter:
Roberta Schweitzer holds a Ph.D. in nursing, a master’s degree as an advanced practice psych-mental health nurse, and has more than 20 years of professional experience in psychotherapy and counseling with individuals, families, and groups. Roberta is nationally certified as a trainer for Mental Health First Aid and as a practitioner of group psychotherapy and psychodrama through the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama. Dr. Schweitzer is a former assistant professor in the Purdue University School of Nursing and collaborates with Indiana AgrAbility/Breaking New Ground to explore rural stress and coping issues, and to enhance mental health resources and well-being in farm families living with a chronic disability.A question & answer period will follow the presentation.
To participate in this free webinar, click here to access the online registration form by Friday, September 21. Instructions for accessing the session will be sent to registrants by Tuesday, September 25. Please pass on this invitation to others you believe may be interested. Contact AgrAbility at 800-825-4264 or email agrability@agrability.org if you have questions.
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