Get into a comfortable position, close your eyes and clear your mind of negative thoughts. Close your eyes and remember a particularly pleasant event. Let your body feel as it felt then. If your farming operation does become financially stressed, help the children to understand that they are blameless. Reassure them that your family will go on even if you leave the farm.
Regular reassurance helps stressed farm youngsters cope.
The Role of Professional Counseling Most farm families who use positive stress management can handle farm stresses. However, any family with a depressed member should seek counseling or medical advice immediately. Professional help is also necessary if children or adults mention suicide, appear depressed, or become unusually aggressive. Ask a trusted nurse, doctor, or pastor for recommendations. You also may find help by looking under Mental Health Services in your telephone directory.