LGBTQ+ farmers’ supportive relationships and mental health outcomes

Social support is a crucial protective factor for mental health, including for farmers. Farmers’ social support has been associated with greater psychological well-being and reduced distress. However, little research has focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ+) farmers and few studies have examined the role of social support for LGBTQ+ farmer mental health. The current study presents findings from analysis of survey data (N=148) and semi-structured interview data (N=17) to better understand United States (U.S.) LGBTQ+ farmers’ mental health experiences and the role of social support. Greater LGBTQ+ companionship was associated with less farm-specific stress, less LGBTQ+ victimization, fewer anxiety and depressive symptoms, and decreased suicide risk. Greater connection to LGBTQ+ friends and community were each associated with fewer poor mental health outcomes. Findings elucidate how LGBTQ+ farmers’ experiences of farm-related stress and LGBTQ+ victimization negatively impact mental health, while LGBTQ+ companionship is a form of social support that positively influences mental health. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in agriculture should question family and relationship-related assumptions and work to be inclusive of diverse family structures and relationships to ensure their work is supportive of LGBTQ+ farmers.