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Rural youth stress

What it means

Rural communities and families are disproportionately affected by a range of stressors  including a weak agricultural economy, population loss, healthcare and daycare shortages and isolation. These can increase risks from obesity, depression and opioid addiction to suicide and interpersonal violence. 

Addressing cumulative rural and farm stress cannot ignore young people who are more aware of and impacted by the family stress that we sometimes imagine. They are worried about their parents, anxious about family finances and health, and unsure of their own future livelihoods. Youth development professionals must be equipped to meet the needs of these young people by recognizing the signs of stress and having the knowledge and skills to support them.

Why it matters

Rural culture and values like self-reliance and pride can complicate rural youth stress. Farm youth are often raised in the mindset of the agrarian imperative which helps explain why people engage in agriculture and why losing the family farm is particularly devastating. “Losing the family farm is the ultimate loss—bringing shame to the generation that has let down their forebears and dashing their successors’ dreams.” It is important to understand the significance of these deep-rooted values.

While stress can be harmful, it is also important to see opportunity in change. Resilience is the ability to recover from or adapt to adversity and significant stressors. Youth development programs and professionals can help youth build resiliency and the skills needed to better face daily challenges.  

What effective practice looks like

  • Listen to the youth to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Engage youth in conversation one-on-one, or as a group.
  • Simply create space to “let kids be kids.” Encourage participation in activities that they enjoy, and where they can build their support network. Youth programs can be a relief from outside stressors.
  • Know and watch out for signs of stress in youth, like:
    • Feeling sad, irritable or moody
    • Withdrawing from activities (sports, extra curricular activities, hobbies) 
    • Expressing worries repeatedly and routinely
    • Increased or unsubstantiated complaints about school or activities
    • Sleeping and eating too much, or too little
    • Drastic changes in behavior (reacting to situations in a fearful or surprising manner)
  • Build in coping skills and stress reduction strategies, like:

Tips for youth development program staff

  • Remember that children and teens are aware of changing family dynamics due to financial and farm stress. It is important to acknowledge this, instead of trying to hide these stressors. 
  • Model healthy coping mechanisms. Share when you feel stressed, and what you do to relax and sort out your feelings (go for a walk, talk with a friend, take a bath).
  • Remember that youth impacted by rural stress are no different than youth facing other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) or trauma situations. Applying many of the same support principles will be effective. When concerned, it is important to connect with parents or other caring adults who know and work with the child.

Author: Aly Kloeckner, Extension educator

Reviewed in 2021

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