Stress, Mental Health, and Resilience among Western Prairie Farmers in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Comparison Study

Abstract

Background Farming is recognized as a stressful occupation, and a growing body of research shows that farmers report high levels of poor mental health. In Canada, two national studies of farmer mental health have been conducted, but an in-depth examination of the mental health of farmers from a single prairie province remains unexplored. Alberta is a central prairie province with significantly larger farms and slightly older farmers than the national average, with predominantly beef or grain farm operations. It is essential to understand regional variations from the national average among farmers to validate those findings and ensure interventions are appropriately tailored for sub-populations. The aim of our study was to (a) explore the types of farm stressors, (b) assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, burnout, and resilience among farmers in Alberta, and (c) compare those findings to the national average of Canadian farmers and normative data. Methods We conducted a survey of validated scales to assess anxiety, depression, burnout, and resilience among farmers. Farm stresses were assessed through a new survey tool that underwent factor analysis to identify the underlying dimensions of stress. Descriptive statistics were summarized, and t tests and analysis of variance were used to compare survey results between genders, and the national average of farmers and normative data. Results Overall, 354 farmers completed the survey. Approximately 36.4% and 42.7% of participants reported moderate to severe levels of depression and anxiety, respectively. Participants reported higher levels of burnout and resilience compared to the national average of farmers. Women reported more severe mental health outcomes compared to men. Five categories of farm stresses were identified through factor analysis: Unexpected work disruptions, Occupational hazards, Farm and financial planning, isolation, and Regulations and public pressure. The five stress categories were associated with mental health outcomes. Conclusions Alberta farmers reported more severe mental health outcomes compared to the national average of farmers and normative data. Our Farm Stress Survey tool provides a new way of conceptualizing and succinctly communicating the range of stresses farmers face. Implications for community-based mental health interventions that help farmers manage the enduring stresses of agriculture is discussed.