VIDEO: 8 top tips to help farmers through the stress of TB

Well-known dairy farmer Abi Reader knows all too well the stress that TB testing can bring. Here are her top tips on how to deal with it.

clock • 1 min read
VIDEO: 8 top tips to help farmers through the stress of TB

TB testing can bring on a lot of stress. 

Abi Reader, a dairy farmer from Wales, gives us her tips on how to deal with the emotional rollercoaster of it all.

 

  1. Communication is key - there are occasions where you will have to open letters from or make a phone call to The Animal and Plant Health Agency. If you do not want to do this, you do not have to. Someone else will do it for you - friends, family, advisors or contact a charity.
  2. Share what is happening with the rest of the team - a problem shared is a problem halved.
  3. Remember you are not alone - other people are going through it and know how you are feeling.
  4. As hard as it is, try and not dwell on it - go to the pub, see a friend, or do some sport to take your mind off it.
  5. Pull in as much help as you can - Abi says she tries to time it with school or university holiday times as students are willing and want to gain experience. Farmers are also glad of the help.
  6. Go online to the TB hub - this has useful advice.
  7. If you are feeling really down, take some time out - this does not come naturally, says Abi, but she has a favourite spot on the farm and watches the sun go down.
  8. Use those farming charities - You do not have to feel suicidal, says Abi, just to make a phone call. They are there to help.

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