Farm Safety Week: Health and Social Issues Facing Farm Families

Theresa Long and Theresa Pittman joined us on behalf of the AgriSafe Network to discuss the health and social issues impacting families in agriculture.

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
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association explains a new resource designed to help farmers comply with ESA-related pesticide label requirements.
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said permanent access to the higher ethanol blend would provide farmers with much-needed certainty while supporting domestic crop demand.
Food prices increased in December, but not as much as expected, according to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
The Farm Bureau’s honor highlights the important role farm dogs play on operations across the country, serving as dependable workers and trusted companions.
Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.