Objective: Farmers face elevated mental health risks due to complex occupational stressors. This study examines subjectively perceived burdens and coping resources among Austrian farmers to inform targeted prevention. Methods: An anonymous online survey conducted in Austria (October 2024–February 2025) included 2006 farmers. Two open-ended questions were analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify categories of burdens and coping resources. These were subsequently analyzed using multivariable binary logistic regression models with sociodemographic, occupational, and mental health variables as predictors. Results: Farmers reported a multifaceted stress experience, with professional (36.3%) and financial burdens (21.1%) most frequently mentioned. Social contacts (30.9%) and personal resources/competencies (19.6%) emerged as the main coping resources. Regression analyses revealed distinct risk and coping profiles: professional burdens were associated with higher age and anxiety symptoms, while interpersonal burdens were more likely among women, younger farmers, and those with depression or problematic alcohol use. Notably, reporting no coping resources was associated with older age and clinically relevant anxiety symptoms. Conclusions: The findings provide an evidence base for targeted, multi-level preventive interventions aimed at reducing mental health risks and strengthening coping resources in agricultural populations. • First mixed-methods study on farmer mental health in Austria. • Professional and financial burdens are most prevalent among farmers. • Risk profiles identified older farmers and those with anxiety report more burdens. • Social contacts are the primary coping resource; professional support is underused. • Findings support targeted prevention for high-risk subgroups.
Schaffler et al. (Wed,) studied this question.