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Suicidality Among Austrian Farmers: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Disparities Compared to the General Population

Archives of Suicide Research : Official Journal of the International Academy for Suicide Research +

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September 2, 2025

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September 2, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Austrian farmers show higher suicidal ideation than the general population. Financial distress, high workload, and regional factors increase risk, while physical activity and relationships offer protection.

Area Of Science

  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Agricultural Health

Background

  • Suicide is a global public health concern, with farmers facing elevated risks due to financial instability and isolation.
  • Suicidality among Austrian farmers has not been previously studied, necessitating research into this specific demographic.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To compare suicidal ideation rates between Austrian farmers and the general population.
  • To identify sociodemographic, occupational, and behavioral risk and protective factors for suicidality in Austrian farmers.

Main Methods

  • Online surveys were conducted from October 2024 to February 2025.
  • The PHQ-9 and Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R) were used to assess suicidal ideation and suicidality.
  • Chi-square tests and logistic regression models, adjusted for age and gender, were employed for data analysis.

Main Results

  • Austrian farmers exhibited significantly higher suicidal ideation (19.7%) compared to the general population (14.3%).
  • Key risk factors for farmers included financial distress, high agricultural workload, and residing in Eastern Austria.
  • Physical activity outside of work and being in a relationship were identified as protective factors.

Conclusions

  • The study confirms increased suicidal ideation among Austrian farmers, underscoring the impact of financial and occupational stressors.
  • Interventions should address financial instability, workload, and promote social support and physical activity within farming communities.
  • Understanding the interplay of economic and psychosocial factors is crucial for mitigating farmer suicidality.

Keywords:

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