More than two-thirds of farmers in the North have suffered levels of hopelessness which could potentially make them suicidal, according to a study by Queen's University Belfast.
The study, Stress in Ulster Farmers, questioned 3,000 farmers throughout Northern Ireland about their personal circumstances, working hours and conditions and economic situation. It was commissioned by the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) and conducted by Dr Tony Gallagher from the university's Psychology Department.
Many farmers felt they were now more likely to commit suicide than during the foot-and-mouth crisis. According to the study, those who were unmarried, worked long hours on their own and had serious financial worries were most likely to end their lives. Dr Gallagher said farmers living in isolated rural areas often suffered great amounts of stress.
While in the past it had been thought that those at greatest risk of suicide were suffering from psychiatric disorders, this was actually not borne out in the study, Dr Gallagher said.
"In fact it would appear that those who had given up hope in the future are at greater risk. Interestingly, those who are married and attend church on a regular basis are more likely to have lower levels of hopelessness, probably because they have more social support through family, friends and church connections."
The UFU president, Mr John Gilliland, said that while the study's results were "shocking", they reflected the harsh realities of rural life in the North.
"We now have a major social issue to deal with in the rural community. This must be recognised, and a co-ordinated effort must get under way to offer help to the many farmers and farm families who feel a sense of hopelessness," he said.