Mental health in agriculture: A pillar for sustainability and innovation
- Equipe ESGpec
- Nov 19, 2024
- 3 min read
People's internal state and mental health are less visible but critical pillars for the sustainability of agriculture. The growing pressure on employees and producers, intensified by climate challenges, income uncertainty, volatility in input and product prices, and the need to adopt more sustainable practices, directly impact their ability to manage and carry out operations efficiently. In a context in which agribusiness is fundamental to global food security, caring for the mental health and improving the internal state of the sector's professionals is essential for the resilience and sustainability of rural properties.
The impact of mental health on productivity
According to an article published by eDairy News , farmworkers face high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Contributing factors include social isolation, financial instability, long work hours, and the burden of managing natural resources. These challenges can reduce the ability to make strategic decisions, impact productivity, and jeopardize the future of agricultural operations.
Furthermore, poor mental health can lead to physical problems and increase the risk of workplace accidents. The importance of initiatives focused on mental well-being is crucial not only for individual health but also for strengthening social sustainability on rural properties.
Can people's mental health and internal state affect farm performance?
Results reported in research in Norway and recently published in the Journal of Dairy Science indicated that dairy producers with better physical and mental health tend to have herds with a lower prevalence of subclinical mastitis.
The authors point out the limitations of the methodology in their article, but believe there is evidence demonstrating the importance of adopting mental and physical health programs on farms. They also suggest the importance of including this topic in agricultural policy programs.
ESGpec and the creation of the PEOPLE Score
Recognizing the importance of the social dimension in sustainability, ESGpec has added a new diagnostic category to its portfolio: the PEOPLE Score , which will be included in the SOCIAL Scores category . This score is designed to assess the satisfaction and well-being of farm employees, monitoring factors such as engagement, motivation, and quality of life.
SOCIAL Scores will complement PEC Scores and PEC Solve , providing a holistic view of rural activities. Combined with existing diagnostics, this score will offer valuable insights for managers seeking to foster a more balanced, productive, and people-centered culture.
Strategies to improve mental health in the countryside
Initiatives that promote the mental health of rural producers and workers may include:
1. Reducing isolation: Promote community events and support groups to facilitate the exchange of experiences and strengthen support networks.
2. Stress management training: Provide training to develop coping skills and emotional resilience.
3. Technological innovation: Tools such as management applications, including those from ESGpec, can simplify processes and alleviate the mental overload of managers and workers.
4. Fair working conditions: Improve infrastructure, ensure balanced working hours, and create policies that value rural workers.
The connection between human well-being and sustainability
The mental well-being of rural workers is directly linked to the sustainable performance of agricultural properties. Engaged, healthy, and motivated farmers are more capable of adopting regenerative practices, innovating processes, and contributing to a more balanced value chain.
Conclusion
Mental health in agribusiness is not just a matter of individual well-being, but a key element for sustainability and efficiency in the sector. With innovative initiatives, such as the creation of the PEOPLE Score , ESGpec seeks not only to diagnose but also to promote practices that value human well-being and strengthen the foundations of sustainability in the field.
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