Farmers warned about dangers of long-term stress

Farmers warned about dangers of long-term stress

The Heart Foundation is encouraging Kiwi farmers to manage their stress levels and seek help quickly if they experience any signs of heart disease.

As thousands of farmers flock to the NZ National Agricultural Fieldays this week, the dairy industry’s current financial challenges will no doubt be a hot topic of discussion.

Heart Foundation Head of Marketing, Darren Hopper, said many farmers are potentially at increased risk of stress, depression and anxiety, due to negative cash flows and rising debt levels. It’s a very hard job and often done in isolation.

“It’s normal to experience some level of stress but when you’re stressed, anxious or depressed for long periods of time, it can seriously affect heart health.”

Long-term stress means that a person can have higher levels of adrenaline in their body, which can lead to raised blood pressure and potentially place them at increased risk of heart disease and a heart attack.

To help alleviate stress, farmers can simply talk to their partners, a close friend or family member about how they’re feeling. Just talking things through with another person can often make a person feel better. Planning activities that can provide a much-needed chance to unwind, such as going fishing or reading a book, can also be beneficial.

Darren said Kiwi farmers will often delay seeking help when they experience heart problems, due to work commitments and their rural location.

“The Heart Foundation recommends getting medical help at the first sign of trouble. We encourage people not to put things off, as those extra minutes and hours can make a difference.”

The most common warning signs of a heart attack include chest discomfort, and pain in the neck, jaw, shoulders, abdomen or back. Other symptoms include excessive sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

The Heart Foundation will be raising awareness of heart attack signs and symptoms during July, through a TV campaign and patient support resources.

Farmers are invited to head along to the Heart Foundation’s stand at Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PA1c), for a free blood pressure check and information about heart health.

ENDS

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