Journal of Rural Mental Health, Vol 50(3), Jul 2026, 146-156; doi:10.1037/rmh0000337
This study explores rural farmers’ preferences for receiving mental health resources. Structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with full-time farmers (n = 31) throughout 19 counties within the state of Georgia. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, and researchers coded interviews separately before thematic analysis was used to identify common themes. Half of the farmers reported access to local mental health treatment, and most said they were comfortable discussing mental health with their primary care provider, who was often cited as being their main touchpoint for mental health services. Three overarching categories emerged regarding preferred methods for delivering mental health resources: community-based partners, clinical settings, and media platforms. Peer support and farming-specific meetings were the most frequently reported community-based resources, followed by private channels, faith-based settings, and financial services. Primary care providers were the most reported clinical avenue, followed by therapists and telehealth. Many farmers also described the importance of print and online media in distributing mental health resources due to its convenience and privacy. Generational and gender differences in attitudes toward delivery methods were also noted. Farmers generally believed younger peers were more open to utilizing mental health services. Female farmers more often identified peer networks, therapists, and telehealth as useful, while male farmers emphasized private channels, one-on-one meetings, and media. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of further research examining gender and generational differences in farmers’ attitudes toward mental health resources to develop more effective strategies to support farmer health and well-being. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)