Content by Andrea Bjornestad

Mother helping her son prepare his school backpack.

Summer Fun is Done: Tips for Transitioning Back to School

Heading back to school and the lifestyle adjustments that comes with it can be a stressful process for both kids and parents. Learn some tips for managing stress during this challenging transition.

Female Native American rancher gazing into an open rangeland.

Taking Time for Reflection: Managing Stress With Positive Thinking

The practice of positive thinking can improve your physical and mental health, and new perspectives and optimism can bring renewed strength to managing stress on the farm and at home.

scrabble tiles arranged to spell mental health

SDSU Extension Announces Agriculture Behavioral Health Voucher Program

February 24, 2022

Brookings, S.D. – SDSU Extension, the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS), and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resource (DANR) have launched an Agriculture Behavioral Health Voucher program.

A rancher inspecting a sample of alflafa in an open range.

Agriculture Behavioral Health Voucher Program

The voucher program provides funding for free mental health counseling services to farm families.

Three young farmers walking through a harvested field at sunset.

SDSU Extension Seeks Participants for Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network Focus Groups

January 27, 2022

SDSU Extension invites individuals involved in farming, ranching and agriculture to participate in a statewide comprehensive needs assessment on farm/ranch stress and mental health.

Three young farmers walking through a harvested field at sunset.

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Farm Stress Assistance in South Dakota

If you are experiencing farm stress or want to help others who are experiencing farm stress, organizations have expanded efforts across South Dakota. Learn about some available resources for seeking assistance.

scrabble tiles arranged to spell mental health

Stress and Mental Health Resources Available to South Dakota Producers, Family Members and Friends

August 14, 2020

April blizzards, wet planting and harvest conditions, low commodity prices, and trade concerns made 2019 a stressful year for many South Dakotans.

A father, mother and daughter walking in a field in the countryside.

Talking With Teens and Youth During Challenging Times

Youth are regularly faced with uncertain situations, disappointments and potential mental health challenges. It is important for caring adults in their life to be able to know how to talk to them during these times.

A family farm with the sun setting in the background.

Recognizing Symptoms of Stress During Farming Challenges

Fact sheet to help recognize symptoms of stress during a farming challenge.

An older man with his back to the camera looking over a pond.

Brain Health: The Impact of Chronic Stress

Stress affects everyone. Stress is your body’s response to a real or perceived harmful situation.