By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance has released the results of its farm stress survey, aimed at better understanding the mental health challenges faced by Ohio’s farmers, families, and rural communities.
The survey, conducted anonymously, gathered responses from over 600 participants across 80 Ohio counties, highlighting key stressors and mental health issues affecting the agricultural community.
The survey explored various aspects of farm life, including demographics, farm-related stressors, mental health and well-being, social support, and access to mental health services.
Results showed that the most common stressors causing moderate to severe stress were the cost of farm inputs, fluctuating market prices for crops and livestock, and the cost of farmland. These economic pressures significantly impact the mental health of farmers.
Overall, 77% of respondents reported a positive perception of their mental well-being, with 39% describing it as “very good or excellent.” However, 23% of respondents had negative perceptions of their mental health, and 10% reported that mental health issues affected their work and daily activities for 14 or more days in the past month.
Loneliness was also a prevalent issue, with half of the respondents likely experiencing feelings of isolation.
Despite recognizing the need for mental health care, 44% of respondents reported needing mental health or counseling services in the past year. Of those, half did not receive the necessary support, and nearly a quarter felt the services they received were inadequate.
The Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance, composed of state agencies, universities, and agricultural organizations, aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in farming.
Members include The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), Ohio Department of Agriculture, Ohio Farm Bureau, and the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation.
Officials emphasize the importance of supporting farmers who face unique challenges, such as economic pressures, isolation, and the impacts of unpredictable weather.
The insights from the survey will guide the development of targeted mental health resources and programs to support Ohio’s agricultural community.
With agriculture being Ohio’s number one industry, employing one in eight Ohioans, addressing farm stress is crucial. The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and CFAES will use the survey data to inform resource allocation and create action plans to support farmers and their families.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline remains a vital resource, providing 24/7 confidential support to Ohioans experiencing mental health or substance use crises. The alliance continues to work toward reducing stigma and ensuring farmers have access to the mental health resources they need.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages
Categories: Ohio, General