Mental health talk no longer taboo on farm

“fishbowl” times, when looking after one’s mental health is very important.

“You’re in the glass, you’re behind the wheel and you’re spending a lot of time by yourself, and it can get quite boring,” she said.

“I recommend doing things like getting out of the combine every hour and doing a couple laps around the combine– not only is it good to get out and check your equipment, but it’s good to get out and move your body.” important to get quality sleep,” she said. those thoughts coming on, take three deep breaths and try to think about something else, put on the radio, or call a friend you know is in the combine and just as bored as you. Connecting with someone you care about is another really good tool.”

Ways to help ensure quality sleep include decreasing screen time before bed, laying your clothes out before bed to make the morning easier, and precooking meals for the day.

“A lot of people do field meals and that’s a wonderful thing because it brings the community aspect into harvest,” she said.

For Leniczek, the fact farmers and ranchers are more open to talking about mental health is a great step.

“Crops around Lloydminster, for the most part, look pretty good this year, but if you’re having a rough year or maybe you were affected by a drought, just remember not to be too judgemental of yourself,” she said.

“It’s important to take some of that pressure off and not go down the rabbit hole of rumination of negative thoughts.”

Leniczek describes harvest as a time when farmers experience a lot of what she calls

Leniczek is also a major advocate for sleep, something many of us take for granted on and off the farm.

“I know it’s hard as people work crazy long hours, but when you do sleep, it’s also

“It’s also important to make sure you get good, nutritious meals, to keep your brain working optimally working such long hours.”

For anyone experiencing negative thoughts during those long fishbowl times, Leniczek has a few tips for combating negativity.

“When you do notice

“It’s becoming a conversation that’s becoming more open. I wouldn’t necessarily say it was a taboo conversation, but you just ‘tough it out,’ you know? Rub some dirt in it and kind of just get over it. Now, more awareness is being raised and there’s a big focus on it.”