Threats of Climate Change on the Mental Health of Date Farmers in Southeast Iran

The mental health of farmers is very important to ensure food security and nutrition of the population of local communities. However, their mental health is at risk for a number of reasons, including challenges from climate change impacts. The study collected ۳۰۰ farm-level micro-data of date palm farmers with the direct cooperation. The survey was conducted during periods between July and September of ۲۰۲۲. The area of study encompasses a portion of southern Iran, where date palm is the leading crop. This study identifies and discusses the health impacts of climate change, of which mental health is one of its aspects. The results show that risk of mental health impacts among smallholder farmers may increase due to climate change as they face the difficulties of farming and the uncertainties associated with extreme weather events. The frequent drought and extreme heat in this region make it difficult to sustain agriculture, and the potential yields of crop production may decrease. All these can augment the concerns and create mental pressure on smallholder farmers.

Keywords:

Climate Change , Health Impacts , Mental Wellbeing , Date Palm Farmers