By Andi Anderson
LGBTQ farmers face significant mental health challenges, with new research indicating they are over three times more likely to experience depression and suicidal thoughts than the general population. The study, conducted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, also found that LGBTQ farmers are about two and a half times more likely to suffer from anxiety.
“For several years, I’ve done work around farm stress and mental health among farmers in general,” said Courtney Cuthbertson, assistant professor and Illinois Extension specialist. “There’s very little research that looks at the crossover of LGBTQ+ people who work in agriculture.”
The study surveyed LGBTQ farmers across the U.S., receiving 148 responses from 36 states. About 72% of respondents reported symptoms of mild to severe depression, 70% experienced mild to severe anxiety, and 52% were at significant risk of suicide.
“The percentages that had probable depression and probable anxiety disorder were in alignment with, if not higher than, general farming populations,” Cuthbertson said.
“However, the percentage at significant risk for suicide was much lower than in samples of LGBTQ+ people who are not in farming. That leads me to wonder whether working in agriculture could have a protective effect for LGBTQ+ people regarding suicide risk.”
The study found that men identifying as LGBTQ experienced higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide risk compared to non-men. Gay respondents and those working in field crops and beef production were more likely to suffer from depression, although beef producers were least likely to have a medical diagnosis of depression.
Agricultural work is demanding, and many farmers feel that taking time to seek mental health care is a financial burden. Stigma around mental health and concerns about being treated respectfully as LGBTQ individuals also contribute to reluctance in seeking help.
“But for LGBTQ+ folks in particular, there may be concern about whether someone’s identity would be validated or whether they would be greeted with the proper pronouns and addressed in a respectful way,” Cuthbertson said.
The research team has developed fact sheets and resources for allies in the farming community to support LGBTQ farmers. Their advice includes using inclusive language, engaging in cultural competency training, and offering equitable support to all farmers.
“It’s important to look at what’s happening in the environment for LGBTQ+ folks, rather than assuming the problem lies with them,” Cuthbertson said. “Let’s identify root causes and see what we can do about it, rather than problematizing a marginalized group.”
Cuthbertson emphasizes that the contributions of LGBTQ individuals in farming are crucial. “Agriculture can’t be sustainable unless it’s sustainable for the people working in it,” they said. “We need to be attentive to mental and physical health and make the industry inclusive for all.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: Illinois, General