Stress

Stressors are very common in the agricultural population.  Stressors include financial pressures from 
unstable markets, the globalization of the farm economy, unpredictable weather conditions, working 
irregular long hours, land encroachment by suburban sprawl, and the disinclination of younger 
generation family members to continue the family farm tradition.  Farming is facing immense pressure 
from the continued growth of corporate industrial agricultural operations and the increasing distrust 
by rural farm neighbors and the urban population of genetically modified organizations and high-
density animal operations.  The average age of farmers continues to increase and the effects of aging 
significantly contribute to health care issues. Many farmers nation wide are actively considering 
whether they can afford to continue farming.  This can involve a sense of loss of identity and self-
worth that can have a significant impact upon health. The stewardship of the land and passing on land 
and a profession to sons and daughters is very important to many older generation farm families. The 
various stressors can affect personal self-care, family relationships, and adherence to safe work 
practices. Mental health conditions include depression and anxiety.  The culture of farming does not 
lend itself to seek out or accept help and this can lead to a feeling of hopelessness and the possibility 
of suicide.  A supportive and caring community with involvement of health professionals with an 
understanding of the pressures on agricultural producers, the lifestyle and culture associated with 
farming, and the involvement of supportive peer groups is extremely important to maintain the fabric 
of rural agricultural communities.

Screening for stressors and depression on routine visits to the clinic can be a valuable service.  Farm 
family acceptance of involvement of social workers and mental health professionals can be a difficult 
challenge but a team approach by members of the rural health community can aid in making difficult 
transitions as farm families face the possibility of starting new lives.