A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Climate Change Anxiety and Depression Among Female Smallholder Farmers in Ghana: The Moderating Role of Social Capital

Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural communities globally, with female farmers inlow- and middle-income countries (LMICs) disproportionately affected. As climate-related stressors intensify, there is growing concern about the mental health consequences for these vulnerable populations. However, limited research has explored the specific association between climate change anxiety (CCA) and depression among female smallholder farmers. This study aimed to examine the association between climate change anxiety and depression among female smallholder farmers in Ghana and to assess whether social capital modifies this relationship. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 828 female smallholder farmers in Ghana. CCA was assessed using the 13-item scale developed by Clayton and Karazsia, while depression was measured using a 7-item abridged version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21-D). Multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze both direct associations and interaction effects, controlling for potential confounders. Climate change anxiety was significantly associated with higher depression scores (β = 0.14, 95%CI=.196, .342, p < 0.001). This relationship remained significant across age groups: 18–64 years (β = 0.29, 95%CI=.145, p < 0.001) and 65+ years (β = 0.12, 95%CI=.185, .342, p < 0.001). Furthermore, social capital significantly moderated the relationship between CCA and depression, serving a protective role (β = -0.10, 95CI%= -1.14, -.171, p < 0.001). The findings suggest that strengthening social capital may serve as an effective buffer against the mental health impacts of climate change.