CFAES Impact: November/December 2024

The mental health of Ohio’s farmers is increasingly critical, especially as external pressures — such as unpredictable weather — intensify the demands of their work. Bridget Britton, an OSU Extension behavioral health program specialist, underscores the urgency of recognizing and addressing these challenges. OSU Extension plays a vital role in this mission.

“By fostering open conversations about mental health, CFAES seeks to empower Ohio’s farmers and ensure they have the support they need to thrive,” Britton said. Farmers often face unique stressors that can lead to overwhelming feelings of helplessness.

“Signs of excessive stress include withdrawing from social interactions, expressing hopelessness, or neglecting their farms and animals,” she explained. The recent historic drought has compounded these issues, prompting behaviors that signal distress among farmers.

“If you notice a farmer discussing death or asking about what happens to their farm if they die, it’s crucial to take those concerns seriously,” Britton warned. “Neglecting farm responsibilities can have dire consequences — not only for mental health, but also for the safety of those working on the farm.”

Britton emphasized that excessive stress can result in accidents and costly mistakes, impacting not just the farmers but also their families and the wider community. “It’s essential for farmers to take breaks, even if they feel they can’t,” she advised. Simple strategies can significantly alleviate stress levels. Taking a brief walk, practicing deep breathing exercises, or engaging in a favorite hobby can make a difference. Regular aerobic exercise, even for just 10-15 minutes a day, can stimulate the mind and help decrease stress hormones.

OSU Extension is actively providing resources and training to enhance mental health within agricultural communities. Programs such as “Mental Health First Aid” and “Farm Stress Certified” equip individuals to recognize signs of distress and offer vital support.

“Our goal is to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues,” Britton explained. Farmers and their families can access a wealth of resources through OSU Extension’s farm stress website at go.osu.edu/farmstress. Ongoing initiatives aim to analyze current stressors and strengthen support networks statewide, ensuring that Ohio’s farmers are not facing their challenges alone. 

As farmers across Ohio prepare for the transition from harvest to winter and ultimately spring planting, the familiar, triangular slow-moving vehicle (SMV) emblem remains an essential tool for ensuring farm safety. CFAES experts highlight that the SMV emblem, now a global icon, was created on Ohio State's campus. 

"“This sign is more than an icon for safety. It’s often recognized as a symbol for farm and rural equipment, and embodies the phrase, ‘farmers at work,’” said Dee Jepsen, a CFAES professor and the state leader for OSU Extension’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program. “Created 60 years ago, it’s right up there with the McDonald’s arches as an icon that is recognized worldwide.”

The development of the SMV emblem began in the CFAES Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Funded by the Automotive Safety Foundation, the research team examined over 700 collision cases involving farm equipment on roadways. The study revealed that 65% of crashes were rear-end collisions, underscoring the need for a distinct emblem that could make slow-moving vehicles more visible. The SMV emblem’s triangular shape features a fluorescent orange center visible by day, and retroreflective red edges visible by night — designed to ensure visibility in various lighting conditions.

“Many farmers are aware of the laws surrounding lights and SMV signage,” Jepsen said. “SMVs are an early warning signal for approaching motorists, along with lights and reflective materials. All of these items are crucial for visibility.” Shortly after its development in 1962, the SMV emblem traveled 3,689 miles across the country from Portland, Maine, to San Diego, California, mounted on the back of a farm wagon. This journey quickly garnered national recognition from farmers, equipment dealers, and legislators. In 1963, Ohio State dedicated the emblem to the public, ensuring it would not be patented or trademarked but freely used for safety.

“Ohio State made a significant contribution to public safety by giving this symbol to everyone,” said Jepsen. Ohio later adopted legislation requiring SMV emblems on all slow-moving vehicles, including horse-drawn carriages. The emblem has been updated with improved reflective materials, and it remains a critical safety feature for vehicles traveling under 25 mph. For more information on farm safety, visit agsafety.osu.edu.