Factors that contribute to extraordinary stress in farmers

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the conditions leading to stress in farmers. Rural and agricultural communities face heightened stress levels due to multiple factors, with cumulative negative consequences, as proposed by the Cumulative Stress Model (CSM). This study engaged a panel of experts with lived and professional experiences in an intentional and iterative Delphi process to identify stressors in agricultural communities. Employing the three-round Delphi technique by Turoff and Linstone (1975), this study integrated diverse perspectives and expertise while minimizing biases arising from group discussions or face-to-face interactions. The findings indicate that most stressors, such as farm operating costs, commodity prices, weather, labor shortages, crop/livestock diseases, economic fluctuations, and work-related accidents, were beyond individual control. These stressors can lead to a sense of powerlessness, particularly challenging in communities valuing independence and self-reliance. Furthermore, farm operating costs, commodity prices, weather, labor shortages, and crop/livestock diseases ranked among the top stressors. Debts, loans, and work-related accidents also contributed to stress. Notably, farm operating costs, commodity prices, and weather emerged as the three most highly rated stressors across all categories—lack of control, sudden fluctuations, and farming-related stressors. Addressing these stressors is paramount for monitoring and improving the well-being of agricultural communities.