by Karen Endres & Jes Beauchamp

Trauma is often thought of as a one-time event that was “traumatic” to the person(s) involved in the event. However, trauma can come from so much more than just a one-time event. It is true that trauma can happen from a singular accident on the farm, but it can also happen from the continuation of chronic exposure to repeated events. For many farmers, these are constant stresses that can impact their mental health.

Karen Endres is the Farmer Wellness Program Coordinator at Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's Wisconsin Farm Center.

Jes Beauchamp is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Tele-Counselor at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's Wisconsin Farm Center.

The Coping Better: Connecting with Our Positive Emotions is a podcast about building positive emotions for farmers, farm families and agricultural professionals highlighted through the voices of those working, living and experiencing the joys and challenges of agriculture.

Are you a service provider working with farmers and farm families? If so, these guiding principles for trauma-informed practices may help you support individuals affected by trauma.

To be prepared in case of an accident on the farm, consider getting trained in CPR & First Aid.

Practicing Pause

Practicing the Pause is a weekly, 30-minute virtual space to practice a variety of techniques to calm your mind and body, decrease stress, and increase self-awareness and resiliency. Participants practice holding space while also practicing skills such as deep breathing, guided imagery, gentle stretching, etc. Practicing Pause gathers every Thursday morning, from 8:30-9:00 AM. You are free to join when you are able. Upcoming dates include:

Preparing for Tax Season

This FREE webinar will provide information on the impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) assistance for distressed borrowers. Topics will include:

Preparing for Tax Season: Impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Distressed Borrowers will meet via Zoom on Monday, February 20, 2023, 1:00 PM.

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