Sean E. Brotherson, PhD, is a Professor and Extension Family Life Specialist with North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND. He earned his an MS in family science from Brigham Young University and a PhD in human development and family studies at Oregon State University. He has worked at North Dakota State University since 1998. He has conducted research and developed educational resources and programs on marriage, parenting, rural stress, grief and bereavement, and other family-related topics. In the area of farm stress, he has authored publications such as Farming and Ranching in Tough Times and Making Family Decisions in Farming and Ranching, conducted training for professionals such as Hard Choices in the Heartland, and done many media interviews on farm stress and wellness topics. He has implemented three federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on farm and ranch stress assistance. He speaks frequently on healthy family living, writes regularly on family topics for public audiences, and develops educational materials to strengthen family relationships. Sean and his wife, Kristen, have been married for 32 years and are the parents of eight children. They enjoy spending time together, reading, travel, and church service, as well as cooking a lot of family meals.

Sessions:

Managing Stress and Pursuing Wellness in Times of Tight Margins - While stress is common in agriculture, we seldom realize the negative toll that stress takes on our health, decisions and relationships. This workshop explores awareness of stress issues in agriculture, signs of stress, and practical coping strategies and resources to manage stress in times of agricultural strain. 

Tools for Your Wellness Toolbox in Agriculture - We talk about soil health, crop health, animal health, farm safety—what about the health and wellness of folks working in agriculture? This workshop explores the importance of a wellness focus in agriculture, the psychology of stress in ag, and practical, research-based wellness strategies designed to focus on and improve personal wellness for all areas of one's life.