The daily grind of life, plus unexpected surprises and uncertainties, can easily become too much, weighing on the mind. No wonder we start to feel overwhelmed, shut down, find less enjoyment in things and struggle to sleep.
The world of agriculture has always been, and will continue to be, an industry of uncertainties. The weather for one, is something no-one can be certain about, not to mention the many other pressures and changing environments.
The general resilience we see in our farming folk, helps to see people through the most challenging of times. On occasion this resilience can become a barrier to noticing that things are piling up and getting overwhelming.
How do you recognise when you need a little relief from the pressures of life?
Six habits to consider making part of your everyday life
These things can help even when everything is well. When we practice healthy coping habits when things feel okay, it helps us use them more easily when we are feeling the pressure and stresses of life.
- Spend time doing something you enjoy, whether it is a hobby such as fixing up cars, playing music, gardening or time with a pet.
- Prioritise time for you. We all need time to reflect on things we are thankful for and things that we are struggling with.
- Make time for family, and/or friends. Its important to feel connected and taking time to spend with others can give a chance to laugh, cry, rant, talk.
- Stay active, ideally away from work. A simple 15 minute walk a day can make a huge difference to how we cope with pressures, but you might play a sport, attend the gym, run, or something else.
- Understand the things you can’t control so that you focus on the things you can control such as, your reactions, how you spend your time, your priorities, how you look after yourself.
- Talk with someone you trust each week, you can help each other find your way through pressured times, and enjoy it when things are well.
The best you can do for you, is learn to recognise the signs in yourself and develop healthy coping strategies.
Helping others starts with listening, not trying to solve the problems, but helping them to feel heard and supported.
Here at YANA, the training we provide can teach you practical and useful tools to help yourself and others. Why not take a look at what we offer.
Our confidential helpline is here for you, if and when you need to talk, or feel that counselling would help. Contact the helpline 0300 323 0400 / helpline@yanahelp.org