Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

PhD

College

College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences

Department

Agricultural & Extension Education

Committee Chair

Aaron Giorgi

Committee Co-Chair

Haley Rosson

Committee Member

Jessica Blythe

Committee Member

Doolaire Singh-Knights

Abstract

Compared nationally, West Virginia currently ranks lowest for life expectancy, highest for drug related deaths and 35th for access to adequate health (WV DHHR Organization Assessment & Strategic Plan, 2022). The state also ranks first in the nation for depression with one in four adults experiencing some form of depressive condition each year (CDC, 2020). The rurality of the state may limit social interaction and availability of medical treatment facilities (Brew et al., 2016).

The situation is even more dire for those in farming-related occupations. Farmers often struggle with management stress, utilizing appropriate coping strategies, and accessing mental health resources. They often report lower mental health and well-being scores than those in other occupations but are less likely to seek treatment for physical and mental health concerns (Brew et al., 2016; Hagen et al., 2021). Long, hard days under physically demanding conditions can lead to exhaustion, injury, and even premature death. The mental stress and physical strain on their bodies leads to a higher than average incidence of mental illness and suicide than most other occupations.

Farming has been positively associated with increased rates of psychological distress and mental health conditions (Hagen et al., 2022). Additionally, there may be a stigma around mental illness and treatment as both farmers and those in the Appalachian culture often see it as a weakness to seek help (Velasquez, 2022; Yazd et al., 2019). Self-induced stigma can lead to increased feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, nervousness, and other distress which increases a patient’s discomfort and can decrease perception of their worthiness of treatment. Shame related to a perceived failure may prevent them from discussing their problems with loved ones or seeking treatment (Abbey et al., 2012). Consequently, they are less likely to seek treatment than those in other occupations. Rural areas in West Virginia often lack facilities for treatment, compounding difficulty even if someone is willing to seek assistance.

Farmers may avoid treatment due to stoicism, fear of stigma, social isolation and topophilia (Skaczkowski et al., 2023; Yadz et al., 2019). This study focused on exploring coping strategies, their utilization, and perceptions of mental health among farmers in West Virginia. The mixed methods design utilized a quantitative questionnaire to assess farmer coping strategies based on the BRIEF Cope inventory and qualitative interviews of farmers and ag service providers related to their perceptions of mental health, its treatment and stigma. Outcomes will be used to direct Extension programming to increase the awareness of mental health issues and utilization of services and support programs as well as developing positive coping behaviors.

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