Climate Change, Occupational Stress, and Workload Impact on Farmers' Mental Health

Abstract

Farmers face various psychological challenges due to high work pressure, climate change, economic stress, and limited access to mental health services. These factors result in a decline in farmers' mental well-being and productivity. This study examines the relationship between farmers' workload, stress, and environmental factors, focusing on adaptation efforts and challenges in maintaining mental health. This qualitative literature review analyzed articles published in 2021-2025 from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Springer databases. The selection process was conducted in stages using keywords in Indonesian and English. From more than 23,000 initial articles, 10 studies were selected based on inclusion criteria relevant to farmers' psychological conditions. Three main themes were found: (1) complex sources of stress such as economic instability, climate uncertainty, and social alienation; (2) coping strategies that are more emotional than problem-solving; and (3) the importance of social support and targeted interventions in maintaining mental health. Young farmers and women were found to be more vulnerable to mental stress. Meanwhile, cultural stigma, especially among older male farmers, was a significant barrier to seeking help. Complex psychological, environmental, and socioeconomic interactions influence farmers' mental health. Strengthening social support, improving mental health literacy, and implementing policies such as stress management training and agricultural insurance are needed to protect farmers' well-being. These findings are important for developing sustainable agricultural practices that address productivity and psychological resilience.