Kelsey Bucholz
SEEK STRESS RELIEF: Monica McConkey understands the stresses in agriculture because she was raised on a farm. Today, she works to help farmers seek relief for stress-related issues.
Joy’s Reflections: Learn about stress from someone who understands agriculture and mental health.
Minnesota is a forerunner in providing mental and emotional help to famers. Through a contract with the Minnesota Centers of Agriculture Excellence and the Farm Business Management Program, the provision allows access to Minnesota Rural Mental Health specialists Ted Matthews and Monica McConkey. The service is free and done with complete confidentiality.
McConkey, of Bejou, Minn., was a key presenter at the 2021 virtual Midwest Women in Ag Conference. Her style was interactive; she quickly got to the heart of having resilience in adversity and power over your thoughts. It is the same message she passes along to farm families.