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Technology can be a producer’s biggest stress

A mental health expert says technology can be one of the biggest stressors farmers face during planting season.  

Aaron Yoder, an associate professor with the University of Nebraska Medical Center, says farmers are surrounded by technology almost all the time and many times it doesn’t work. “We’re used to things working in a certain way and the same things with technology like our phones and other parts like that, if they don’t work like we expect them to that can cause frustration and stress,” he says.

He tells Brownfield stress causes physical symptoms like fatigue, tension or not eating or sleeping well. “In my mind, the best way to reduce stress is to take a little extra time with things,” Yoder said. “Not be rushed when we’re doing the activities because when we try to get something done at the last minute, that adds stress and it’s going to be more difficult to work with the technology interfaces that we deal with.”

Yoder says a simple walk, a balanced meal or time with a pet can prevent stress from spiraling.