B. Freeman, L. Chichester, A. Osborne, M. Minter, B. Gorsakul 2022, Agricultural Producer Stress: A Nevada Statewide Study, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-22-01

Perceived stress

Background: This survey utilized the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), a widely used instrument for measuring perception of stress. It is a measure of the degree to which situations in one's life are considered by the participant to be stressful. Perception of stress differs from actual stress, in that two farmers could have very similar experiences, but one farmer interprets the experiences as highly stressful, while the other interprets the experiences as low stress. Perception of stress is critical because the body’s physical response to stress (and the associated physical problems of chronic stress) is strongly influenced by perception. PSS scores are not diagnostic but are helpful for gaining insight into perceived level of occupational stress. The scale results showed:

  • 11.9% of producers reported low stress (scores 1 to 13),
  • 81.3% reported moderate stress (scores 14 to 26), and
  • 6.8% reported high stress (scores 27 to 40). 
  • The mean average level of stress was medium (18.97)

 

Learn more about the author(s)

 

Also of Interest:

 
NDR1 and the Arabidopsis plasma membrane ATPase AHA5 are required for processes that converge on drought tolerance and immunity. Lu, Y, Chen, H, Corrion, A, Buyuk, I, Li, P, Samaradivakara, S, Wai, CM, Sakamoto, H, Santos, P, VanBuren, R, Kim, Y, Day, B 2021, bioRxiv 2021.06. 10.445978
Grounded In Family
This agriculture stress video is a story of the resiliency of a northern Montana farm family. This multi-generational family discusses what it's like to live and grow up on a farm, as well as provides insight into their methods of dealing with farm stress. The family members inte...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Montana State University and University of Nevada, Reno 2024, YouTube
Relief
Managing & Breaking the Cycle of Chronic Stress
This journal from the UW extension outlines the stress and effect agriculture work has on the mind and body. They state ways how to relieve stress and provide safety measures to follow.
Shutske, John 2020, Extension of Wisconsin-Madison
Perceived stress, stressors, and preferred stress management strategies among western agricultural producers Grocke-Dewey, M., Brennan, A., Freeman, B., Weas, H., Gutheil, J., Stallones, L., & McMoran, D. 2023, Journal of Rural Mental Health, 47(3), 152–162
Ag Wellness
In this course, participants learn key skills in acceptance and commitment therapy and learn how to apply those skills to the unique stresses that face agricultural producers and their families.
Utah State University Extension 2023, Utah State University Extension