Hidden hardship: understanding the factors affecting women’s mental health in agriculture in Ireland

Abstract Aim Despite a growing awareness of the mental health challenges faced by farmers worldwide, there is a lack of understanding and recognition of the unique stressors facing women in agriculture, as well as their help-seeking behaviours, particularly in an Irish context. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in a social constructionist epistemological research approach, this paper explores the stress, anxiety, and other mental disorders impacting women in agriculture in order to help inform more effective, targeted policy interventions moving forward. Subject and methods The study used a qualitative research design grounded in a social constructionist epistemology. Twelve in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with female Irish farmers, aged 35 years and over, as part of this study. Topics of discussion included unique farming stressors, motivators, barriers to help-seeking, and ideas for mental health support improvements. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes, which were coded and analysed using NVivo software. Results Five key themes emerged from the interviews: (1) gender-based discrimination in farming, (2) gender-related stigma, (3) gender stereotypes and roles, (4) gender-biased mental health services, and (5) gender-specific help-seeking behaviours. Women reported feeling marginalised within the agricultural sector, facing stress from deeply ingrained misogyny, and struggling with a lack of recognition for their contributions. Gender-biased mental health services and societal expectations further exacerbated their mental health challenges. While some women expressed a willingness to seek help, others cited the cultural stigma of mental health as a barrier, leading to silent suffering. Conclusion The study highlights the need for gender-specific mental health interventions and policy changes to address the unique challenges faced by women in Irish agriculture. Recommendations include promoting gender equality within the farming sector, improving access to mental health services for female farmers, and fostering support networks to encourage help-seeking behaviours. Addressing these issues will enhance the well-being of women in agriculture, contributing to their empowerment and the overall sustainability of rural farming communities.