Supporting Farmers’ Mental Health
There is no doubt that the farming profession is unique. It combines the independent nature and risk of being a small business owner with the fundamental challenges of managing that business under a global supply and demand system.
In recent years, the media reported on how economic factors, climate, natural disasters, and trade policies have affected farmers’ mental health. The 2020 coronavirus pandemic has added to farmers’ existing list of stressors and mental distress.
Why people farm
Some people farm out of obligation to their families and forebearers, running century-old farms where they are third, fourth, and fifth-generation farmers. They have a sense of responsibility to those who came before them and to maintain the farm for future generations. Others marry into farming and adapt and embrace an agricultural way of life.
Some farmers can’t imagine doing anything else because it is who they are and what they feel comfortable doing, But, if you talk to farmers who are looking at the possibility that perhaps they cannot continue farming, it can be terrifying to them if they believe they are incapable of doing anything else.
Daily challenges of farming
Many farmers’ stressors are related to pressing financial and legal challenges. They also face complicated situations that are often out of their control, including:
Fluctuating market prices contribute to financial concerns and instability.
Pressures due to uncertainty over trade and tariff policies.
Ongoing consolidation of the farming industry limits the number of options available to farmers for buying and selling products.
Constantly changing production conditions, including weather, natural disaster, floods, droughts, pests, and diseases.
Farmers tend to turn to their local service providers like bankers, insurers, and loan officers equipped to help with money matters but not prepared to help with emotional distress.
Why farmers are hesitant to seek help
Farmers typically don’t seek out help when they are struggling with their mental health. Common reasons include the following:
Feeling like they should be able to handle any situation on their own, including emotional distress or personal struggles.
Concerns that mental health professionals would not understand their needs or the types of problems they face due to the nature of their work as farmers (lack of cultural competency).
Concerns that mental health care services cost too much or that nobody will be able to help them “fix” what’s wrong.
Supporting farmers’ mental wellness
Primary care providers, mental health care first responders, and psychologists can work to overcome these barriers.
Build credibility and trust among farmers by learning the basics about agriculture, including the nature of the work they do and the types of stressors they experience because of this work.
Consider providing services to farmers in their homes or in a neutral setting that makes the experience feel less “clinical” and improves accessibility.
Frame mental health support and services as “behavioural health.” Many farmers are experts in animal behaviour and will be more receptive to messaging that takes this expertise into account.
Frame your work as helping farmers manage their behaviour more effectively rather than their mental health.
For more helpful resources, head this way. If you are a farmer or you know a farmer who is in need of mental health support, please use our referral page to find support.
Blog article credit from apa.org
