Comparison of Farmers’ Stressors and Coping Mechanisms with Farmer Spouses’
Abstract
This cross-sectional survey involving 1,484 participants in Georgia aimed to compare stressors and coping mechanisms among farmers and farmer spouses, shedding light on agricultural mental health. The study examined whether farmer spouses experience similar stress levels and stressors as farmers and whether their coping strategies align. The research also explored the relationship between stress, mental well-being, relationship quality, and suicidal thoughts.
The study uncovered notable distinctions between farmer spouses and married farmers. Emotionally, married farmers reported higher levels of negative feelings such as nervousness, sadness, and hopelessness. Suicidal ideation was highly present in both groups, with slightly higher rates observed among farmers. Significant differences emerged in stressors, with both groups prioritizing and experiencing them differently in terms of intensity. Coping mechanisms shared similarities, including exercise, engaging with family or friends, and hobbies. However, alcohol use was more prevalent among farmers, while spouses showed a slightly broader range of coping strategies.
The logistic regression analysis revealed distinct factors influencing suicidal ideation among farmers. Risk factors included being a first-generation farmer, older age, non-Black ethnicity, farm ownership, higher stressor intensity, and experiencing negative emotions. Protective factors encompassed healthier coping methods, moderate succession stress, communication with loved ones, and addressing parenting issues.
In conclusion, this study showcased the intricate dynamics of stressors, coping strategies, and mental health outcomes in the context of farming and marriage. The findings underscore the necessity of addressing mental well-being within the farming community and offering tailored support to both farmers and spouses. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for interventions promoting healthier coping mechanisms and enhancing resilience to agricultural stressors.
Keywords
rural, agriculture, farm, mental health, suicide
Comparison of Farmers’ Stressors and Coping Mechanisms with Farmer Spouses’
This cross-sectional survey involving 1,484 participants in Georgia aimed to compare stressors and coping mechanisms among farmers and farmer spouses, shedding light on agricultural mental health. The study examined whether farmer spouses experience similar stress levels and stressors as farmers and whether their coping strategies align. The research also explored the relationship between stress, mental well-being, relationship quality, and suicidal thoughts.
The study uncovered notable distinctions between farmer spouses and married farmers. Emotionally, married farmers reported higher levels of negative feelings such as nervousness, sadness, and hopelessness. Suicidal ideation was highly present in both groups, with slightly higher rates observed among farmers. Significant differences emerged in stressors, with both groups prioritizing and experiencing them differently in terms of intensity. Coping mechanisms shared similarities, including exercise, engaging with family or friends, and hobbies. However, alcohol use was more prevalent among farmers, while spouses showed a slightly broader range of coping strategies.
The logistic regression analysis revealed distinct factors influencing suicidal ideation among farmers. Risk factors included being a first-generation farmer, older age, non-Black ethnicity, farm ownership, higher stressor intensity, and experiencing negative emotions. Protective factors encompassed healthier coping methods, moderate succession stress, communication with loved ones, and addressing parenting issues.
In conclusion, this study showcased the intricate dynamics of stressors, coping strategies, and mental health outcomes in the context of farming and marriage. The findings underscore the necessity of addressing mental well-being within the farming community and offering tailored support to both farmers and spouses. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for interventions promoting healthier coping mechanisms and enhancing resilience to agricultural stressors.
