A growing mental health crisis among European farmers stems from worsening climate change, economic uncertainty and lack of government support, with the hardest hit in southern and eastern regions.
In short:
- European farmers face increasing mental health challenges from extreme weather, debt and unpredictable crop yields.
- Many countries lack mental health support systems for farmers, and stigma often prevents them from seeking help.
- Farmers in countries like Greece, Romania and Spain feel neglected by their governments and the EU, worsening their stress.
Key quote:
"The droughts came one after another. I reached my limit and fell into depression."
— Daniela Dîrîngă, Romanian farmer
Why this matters:
Farmers are on the frontlines of climate change but often lack the mental health support needed to cope with rising stress. As their livelihoods grow more precarious, their mental well-being becomes a pressing concern for both rural communities and broader food security.
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