Medical Xpress October 8, 2024
Agriculture is a stressful occupation, and farmers struggle with anxiety and depression at higher levels than the general population. A new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign examines differences in mental health challenges for men and women farmers, focusing on the role of social support in mitigating stress. The findings are published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
“We were interested in understanding depression and anxiety among Illinois farmers, and we wanted to bring attention to social support and location, especially with regard to gender. When we think about mental health and agriculture, we also want to think about the person in a broader context.
“In addition to what they find stressful, what are the...