Farming can be isolating and risky.
Farmers and ranchers have higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide compared to the general population. The occupations face stress from financial concerns, isolation and more. But there is help, and there are strategies farmers and ranchers can use to improve their mental wellbeing.
Joining us on the stage at the Agweek 360 Building at Big Iron at 11 a.m. on Sept. 9 were Alyson Dahl and Dr. Kristine Martens, D.O. They shared experiences and resources for safety, stress management and mental wellness.
Dahl is a board-certified physician assistant and founder/co-owner bringing the direct primary care model to North Dakota. Since earning her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of North Dakota in 2017, she has practiced family medicine in both corporate and private settings, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges of the traditional insurance model. Passionate about patient-centered care, Alyson is committed to delivering high-quality, accessible medicine that prioritizes meaningful relationships and long-term health outcomes.
Martens is a board-certified family medicine physician and founder/co-owner with over a decade of experience practicing full-scope family medicine in Fargo. After earning her medical degree from Nova Southeastern University and completing residency at Rapid City Regional Hospital, she returned to the Midwest in 2013 to provide patient-centered care rooted in trust and meaningful relationships. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Martens helped establish the Family Medicine Residency in Fargo, where she emphasized the importance of empathy, listening, and human connection in medical training before returning full-time to patient care.