Farming and ranching are considered two of the most stressful occupations, both physically and mentally, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC).
A mental health support organization for farmers, AgKnow, says that more than 75 per cent of Alberta farmers are experiencing anxiety, and nearly 66.7 per cent are facing depression. Suicide rates among farmers are also alarmingly high.
The MHCC says that factors affecting their mental health include isolation, financial uncertainty, barriers to accessing mental health, and blurred distinction between work and home life.
Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) says that in the past farmers have tended to deal with their stress and anxiety privately. AFSC is trying to change the way the ag industry views, promotes and talks about mental health.
Do More Ag is one of the groups leading that change, says AFSC on their website. They have trained thousands of producers and agribusinesses in mental health first aid, as well as Talk-Ask-Listen workshops. In addition, they have trained mental health professionals in agriculture literacy and created mental health resources. They have also facilitated speaking events and awareness campaigns.
Talk it Out is a virtual meeting space where farmers and their families can come together to share their experiences, worries and frustrations. It provides an opportunity for participants to ask questions, share resources and provide support to other farmers who are experiencing similar circumstances.
“The campaign is aimed at changing the everyday conversations, both within ag and from an outside perspective,” said Adelle Stewart, Do More Ag’s executive director, adding they want to change the culture from ‘if you can’t handle the stress, get out of farming’ to something more.
Do More Ag also has a list of many resources, everything from crisis lines to counsellors with lived ag experience on the Resource page on their website.
To view many of the sessions go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCibR7m-6PPYYiPSq9QbVPHw.
You can also ask for help anonymously. Go to https://www.domore.ag/talk-it-out.
If you need immediate help, please reach out to one of the following:
Emergency Services 911
Mental Health Help Line 1-877-303-2642 (Toll free)
Crisis Services Canada 1-833-456-4566 (phone), 45645 (text). crisisservicescanada.ca (web)
