Farmers Mental Health Programs

Agriculture sector programs and resources

• The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has compiled this Mental Health for Farmers – First Aid Kit. It includes information on self care, crisis phone lines, distress centres, stress mitigation resources and other mental health supports.
• The Do More Agriculture Foundation (Do More Ag) is a not-for-profit organization focusing on mental health in agriculture across Canada. Its website has a detailed list of national resources including crisis lines, suicide prevention information, addiction supports, and training and education programs. Do More Ag’s blog also has helpful tips and other information on how to support your mental health and well-being. Do More Ag’s Community Fund, with support from Farm Credit Canada, provides agriculture communities across Canada with access to Mental Health First Aid certification at no cost.
• Farm Credit Canada’s Rooted in Strength campaign brings awareness to mental health in the agriculture industry with information on stigma, self care, how to help a family member, ways to identify you may be dealing with a mental health concern, stories from real farmers who have lived experience and got help, and a list of provincial help lines.
• The Ontario Federation of Agriculture has a mental health resources page on its website with a list of supports for people in distress. These include ConnexOntario’s 24/7 help line (1-866-531-6000), frequently asked questions for individuals concerned about privacy, and a list of distress and crisis services across the province.
• 4-H Canada’s Healthy Living Initiative provides tools and resources to its 7,600 volunteer leaders to support the well-being of 24,000 4-H members. Its website includes a section with mental health resources, developed with the support of Kids Help Phone, which includes information on self care, building a support system, accessing resources, supporting a loved one and understanding bullying.