New Lincoln University research shows analysing a farmer's personal characteristics is important when dealing with their anxiety.
Research report authors Bruce Greig, Dr Peter Nuthall and Dr Kevin Old say a farmer's personality, objective set, belief in their ability to control outcomes, as well as education and age were among factors highly related to anxiety.
Peter said the past approach to dealing with anxiety has been through utilising coping mechanisms such as sharing with significant others.
"A problem has also been farmers' reluctance to voice difficulties and seek helpers.
"An analysis of personal characteristics provides the information required to direct counselling efforts to modify the anxiety creating personal variables and, consequently, reduce anxiety and its impact on thinking."