Predictors of depression among farmers in rural: A community-based study in South India
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: A BSTRACT Background: Farmers, particularly in rural areas, face a variety of unique stressors that place them at a heightened risk for depression. Methods: A community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted for 6 months among farmers who are residing in the field practice area of Rural Health Training Centre. Consecutive sampling was applied. Face-to-face interviews were conducted in their house using a predesigned structured questionnaire after obtaining consent. Data were entered in Epi info software version 7, and analysis was done in SPSS version 21. Results: Among 212 farmers, it was found that the majority of participants (29.2%) were in the age group of 31–40 years. Females 71.2% were predominant, and 54.2% were illiterates. It was found 58% had minimal depression, and 36% had mild depression. The odds of occurrence of mild to moderate depression was found to be 5.62 (95% CI 1.08–6.37) times higher among farmers with comorbidities when compared to farmers without comorbidities, and there was 4.90 (95% CI 1.84–14.31) times higher odds of developing mild to moderate depression among farmers with addictions when compared to those without addictions. The Nagelkerke R 2 value for the model is 24.3%. Conclusion: Addictions and comorbidities were found to be significant predictors of mild to moderate depression, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $450
OpenAlex ID: W7220851644