Today is National Rural Health Day, and while it may be neglected or even forgotten at times, mental health is a huge component of overall health.
The University of Georgia recently studied the unique roles rural women often fill. They found that women with important roles on the farm often take care of everything off the farm as well. From childcare to housework, sometimes even full-time jobs.
Researchers found rural women often report leading isolated and lonely lives.
However, they often minimize their difficulties saying that while their unique lifestyle is challenging it is also rewarding, with one woman calling it a “great life, if you can stand it.”
A five-year-old program is looking to help female ranchers combat those feelings.
Women in Ranching is looking to help women combat those feelings. Women in Ranching was designed to serve as a place for women to share their dreams in a like-minded community.
Since its creation, the organization has hosted meetings called “circles” that offer community-building and educational programming for female ranchers.
