Stress and coping in Australian male farmers

Farmers face high levels of stress, often related to unique farming industry stressors. Coping strategies in dealing with stress, can be less (avoidant) or more (approach) effective. No previous research has investigated coping strategies across a range of farming-specific stressors.

To determine levels of stress in various categories and the relationship between these stressors and coping strategies used.

Cross-sectional survey, using self-report questionnaire. Independent variables included five stressor categories, and two types of coping.

One hundred and twenty-five rural male farmers, over 18 years of age, across Australia.

Demographic data were collected in addition to responses regarding stress and coping. The Australian Family Farming Stressor Scale, comprising five stressor categories, measured the stressors unique to Australian farming. The Brief COPE (B-COPE) measured approach and avoidant coping strategies.

A total of 125 responses to the survey were analysed, with ages ranging from 19 to 84. While varying levels of stress were found in all stressor categories, Daily Stressors rated highest, followed by Financial Stressors. Higher levels of avoidant coping were utilised for Family Stressors, whereas higher levels of approach coping were utilised for farm-related stressors.

Findings indicate that the rating of stressors may be determined by current affairs, such as Daily Stressors rating highest. This could be due to the lack of available workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, coping strategy findings could better inform clinical practice in assisting farmers in utilising their approach coping skills across all stressors.