Farm Safety Week: Health and Social Issues Facing Farm Families

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Keeping the farm in the family is a top priority for many agricultural operations, but achieving that goal requires a strong focus on family health and resilience. With National Farm Safety and Health Week underway, experts are spotlighting the unique challenges farm families face.

Theresa Long and Theresa Pittman from the AgriSafe Network joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the health and social issues affecting families in agriculture.

In an interview with RFD-TV News, Long and Pittman outlined the most pressing health and social concerns facing farm families, including farm stress, mental health issues, and physical well-being. They also shared how primary care providers can better support agricultural families and offered practical steps farm families themselves can take to address these challenges.

The pair emphasized that safeguarding health and resilience is just as crucial as preserving land and livestock when it comes to ensuring the farm remains in the family for future generations.

Farm families can visit the AgriSafe Network for additional resources.

Related Stories

Rural Lifestyle

When in Rome: Tennessee Ag Students Connect Ancient Building Techniques to Modern Agriculture

University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture students traveled to Italy to study Roman and medieval construction, gaining a unique global educational experience.

April 13, 2026 02:33 PM

 · 

Charles Denney

Rural Health

AgriSafe: Women Make Up Half of the Ag Workforce, But Face Distinct Health and Safety Challenges

Natalie Roy from AgriSafe Network talks about women’s role in agriculture and the increasing need to address their unique health and safety needs as they form a larger part of the workforce.

April 13, 2026 02:21 PM

 · 

Marion Kirkpatrick

Rural Health Matters

Rural Health Matters: Oral Health and Dental Care Disparities in Rural Areas

In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Jeffrey Gold shares how disparities in dental care impact rural Americans and why early detection is important.

April 13, 2026 02:04 PM

 · 

Marion Kirkpatrick

U.S. Farm Bill

Lawmakers Outline New Farm Policy Priorities—But First, A Farm Bill

While the Farm Bill is top of mind right now, it is far from the only issue getting attention in Washington.

April 13, 2026 01:49 PM

 · 

Marion Kirkpatrick

Machinery

DEF Rule Shift Could Keep Trucks Rolling, Supply Chains Moving

Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, discusses EPA DEF system changes and what they mean for the supply chain and fuel costs.

April 13, 2026 12:49 PM

 · 

Marion Kirkpatrick

National FFA Organization

Give FFA Day Raises $1.6 Million for the Next Generation in Agriculture

Funds will support student programs and leadership opportunities across the National FFA Organization. The next Give FFA Day is scheduled for February 25, 2027.

April 13, 2026 12:24 PM

 · 

Neal Burnette-Irwin

Load More