Social and Psychological Stress of Austrian Farmers and Foresters and the Importance of Support Services to Improve Farmers’ Well-being

Farmers and foresters are confronted with high physical, psychological, social and economic pressures and stress. Increasing economic uncertainty and higher prices, harvest losses due to extreme weather linked to climate change, physically challenging work and a lack of staff or issues with the company takeover are just some of the factors that can have a straining impact on the well-being.

The aim of the research project was a systematic and comprehensive analysis of the central psychological, social and physical stress factors and their effects on the health, well-being and working conditions of farmers and foresters in Austria. In addition, existing support services were evaluated and potential gaps and adaptation options identified together with the target group.

Following qualitative and quantitative survey and analysis methods were combined to answer the research questions:

• a comprehensive literature and secondary data analysis
• selected interviews with experts
• a representative quantitative survey among Austrian farmers and foresters
• qualitative individual, couple and family interviews with people from the target group
• Group discussions with farmers and foresters, service providers and experts

The project was conducted on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Regions and Water Management and was supported by a steering group consisting of representatives from the Federal Ministry, the Chamber of Agriculture, the Rural Training Institute (Ländlichen Fortbildungsinstituts, LFI), the Social Insurance for the Self-Employed (SVS), the “Maschinenring”, the “Landjugend” and “Gesundheit Österreich”.