Susan Morgan Bailey
SVP, Culture & Inclusion Consulting Practice Leader
The effects of loneliness and social isolation can be serious for both employees and employers in many industries, including agriculture.
The 2023 U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Connection and Community Health reports that more than 50% of Americans reported feeling lonely every day. People of all ages spend less time connecting in person, but the disconnect is most common among those ages 15 to 24.
As detailed in a recent Harvard Business Review article, stress-related absenteeism linked to loneliness is estimated to cost employers about $154 billion each year.
According to a study by Cigna, workers who experience loneliness are five times more likely to miss work due to stress and twice as likely to miss work because of illness or family commitments.
Loneliness may also affect companies through lost productivity, reduced focus, lower engagement, and decreased job satisfaction. The Cigna study found that employees who feel lonely are twice as likely to consider quitting their jobs. Additionally, 12% of those who say they are lonely believe their work quality is lower than it should be.
How loneliness directly affects farmers and agricultural workers
Farming is different from many other professions. It’s a lifestyle that many people may not fully understand. It involves long hours of physically demanding work and ongoing concerns about the weather, equipment breakdowns, market prices, and more.
Much of the work is done independently, often alone in the fields even if others are nearby. Many farms are located far from neighbors or the nearest town. Even when community events are nearby, farm work usually takes priority.
Farm workers and agricultural workers face many of the same challenges as farm owners or managers, though they may not be responsible for the farm’s financial health. Bad weather or equipment problems can affect their work and earnings. Many agricultural workers are from other countries, which can increase feelings of isolation since they are away from home and family.
This isolation and loneliness may contribute to depression, anxiety, cardiovascular issues, and a weakened immune system. Farmers and managers already face high levels of stress, and loneliness and social isolation may add to feelings of hopelessness, burnout, and difficulty making decisions.
Without steps to reduce loneliness and social isolation, stress can become harder to manage over time.
Technology has made farming more efficient but also means fewer people are needed, which can reduce social interactions.
There is also a stigma around admitting loneliness or seeking mental health care, which can prevent people from getting help. According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are three and a half times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Factors contributing to this include loneliness, limited access to mental health care, and reluctance to ask for help.
Building connections in a remote, rural world
Loneliness and social isolation are real challenges, but there are ways to help farmers, agricultural workers, and farm workers build and maintain connections.
Regular communication, joining support groups, and focusing on employee well-being can help foster meaningful relationships. Here are some ideas to help overcome loneliness and social isolation:
- Use appropriate social media, online forums, and farming groups.
- Consider joining external resources such as AgTalk, if available.
- Get involved locally with other workers or farmers.
- Join a support group.
- Spend time with family and friends when possible.
- Find hobbies that involve others.
Talk to Marsh McLennan Agency about next steps.
At Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA), we have agricultural specialists and experience helping organizations improve their culture in ways that may support efforts to reduce loneliness and social isolation and build stronger connections. Contact your MMA representative to learn more.
If you’re concerned about how loneliness or social isolation might be affecting your employees’ well-being, download our tip sheet with ideas to help them cope.
