'It sort of broke me': A thematic analysis of the psychological experiences and coping strategies employed by Australian fire-affected farmers
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Australian farmers face unique mental health challenges after bushfires. They utilize practical task completion, social support, and positive outlooks to cope and prepare for future events.
Area Of Science
- Agricultural Psychology
- Disaster Mental Health
- Rural Health
Background
- Bushfire exposure heightens mental health risks for individuals.
- Farm fires pose significant threats to farmers' livelihoods, homes, and identities.
Purpose Of The Study
- To explore the psychological experiences of farmers post-bushfire exposure.
- To identify farmers' existing coping mechanisms for recovery and future preparedness.
Main Methods
- In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 farmers/spouses affected by farm fires.
- Thematic analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data from participants in regional and remote areas of South Australia and New South Wales.
Main Results
- Seven themes emerged, including intense emotions, long-term psychological impacts, task-focused recovery, the role of social support, positive attitude, community engagement, and emotion regulation strategies.
- Farmers reported a range of psychological challenges and employed diverse coping strategies.
Conclusions
- Australian farmers experience distinct psychological challenges following farm fires.
- Findings support the development of tailored, culturally relevant bushfire recovery and preparedness programs for farmers, leveraging their inherent strengths.
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