Stressor or succour? Examining the association between conflict, livestock assets, and farmers’ mental health in Nigeria
基于3021名尼日利亚农民的全国调查数据，研究发现冲突暴露与农民抑郁症状显著相关，且拥有更多牛、羊等牲畜会加剧风险，而养鸡则与较低抑郁风险相关。
Farmers are disproportionately vulnerable to violent attacks in the conflict situation in Nigeria, with potential traumatising effects due to the destruction of agricultural livelihoods. In this study, we conceptualise the links between conflict exposure, livestock assets, and depression, using a cross-sectional nationally representative survey of 3021 Nigerian farmers to quantify the relationships. We highlight three main findings. First, conflict exposure is significantly associated with farmers exhibiting depressive symptoms. Second, holding higher herds of livestock, more cattle, and more sheep and goats while exposed to conflict is associated with higher risk of depression. Third, keeping more poultry is negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Finally, this study accentuates the significance of psychosocial support for farmers in conflict situations. The relationships between different livestock species and farmers' mental health may interest further research in strengthening the evidence.