Raising livestock isn’t for the faint of heart. When you aren’t riding the market roller coaster, you’re likely battling disease in the barn—or worse, fighting both at the same time. While physical safety is a standard part of barn protocol, Darrell Hemker, associate director of safety for The Maschhoffs, says being open and honest about the internal struggles of the job is one of the most productive things you can do for your operation.
A “People First” Mandate
In the swine industry, the We Care ethical principles serve as the foundation for daily operations. While these principles cover animal care and environment, they explicitly prioritize the well-being of the people in the barns.
“The inclusion of ‘Our People’ in the six We Care Ethical Principles is the pork industry’s way of saying that we value the people who work in our barns,” says Heather Fowler, VMD and director of producer and public health at the National Pork Board. “Without them, we could not produce pork. We are committed to providing the information and resources they need to live and work safely.”
Fowler emphasizes that mental health isn’t just a personal matter; it is a fundamental component of worker safety and operational success.
“It’s something that you have to work on doing well,” she explains. “Finding the things that bring you peace or help you calm down when you’re stressed is vital. It’s about learning how to stop and reflect so that uncontrolled stress doesn’t lead to issues later.”
Breaking the Stigma of the “Strong, Silent” Farmer
A significant barrier to seeking help in agriculture is the long-standingperceptionthat mental health struggles are a sign of weakness. The industry is working to flip that script,reframing the act ofasking for help as a sign of bravery.
“Some folks aren’t comfortable asking for help because they feel it’s a sign of weakness—butit’s not.We’reall human,” Fowler says.
She notes that it is entirely normal to experience joy and sadness simultaneously, especially when dealing with factors outside of a producer’s control. This is why she champions “ag-literate” resources like the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Farm State of Mind campaign.
“It helps to normalize and destigmatize mental health services in a way that isag-literate, so our producers can access and implement their teachings easily,” Fowler points out. These programs offer peer-to-peer connections, allowing farmers to talk to others whotruly understandthe unique pressures of farm life.
When the Toll Becomes Too Heavy
The emotional weight of the job is often heaviest during a health crisis. Farm owners and managers must recognize the specific mental stress that comes with caring for sick animals.
“When a disease wipes out all the progress and the great things you’ve done, it certainly takes a toll,” Hemker says. “Seeing the death loss and increased mortalities—those are whole new risks.”
Hemker believes leadership plays a crucial role in normalizing these conversations. By being transparent about the pressures of the job, leaders can encourage staff to utilize Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and support networks before a crisis peaks.
“Take your time and ask for help,” Hemker says. “The strongest person is the one willing to step up and say, ‘I need help.’ There’s no shame in that.”
