Canola grower organizations fund farmer mental health initiatives. They encourage you to take advantage of the resources available. Find a quiet place this winter, set aside the time and make a phone call.

How will you improve mental health in 2024?

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The Do More Ag Foundation focuses on farmer mental health across Canada, striving to change the culture in agriculture and supporting all in their mental health wellbeing.

Do More Ag programs include AgTalk, a peer to peer support program. Wellness tips include various videos and articles, including “Unlocking conversations: Effective ways to ask about mental health.” Here is a summary of the article:

Asking someone how they are doing goes beyond a mere greeting—it opens the door to meaningful conversations, including those about mental health. Here are tips on how to start the conversation:

  • Be genuine and attentive. When asking how someone is doing, maintain eye contact, and use a warm and caring tone.
  • Use open-ended questions. This allows for deeper discussions.
  • Express empathy and validate their feelings. Acknowledge their experiences and assure them that their feelings are valid and heard.
  • Share your own experiences. By opening up about your own mental health journey, you encourage others to feel comfortable doing the same.
  • Create a judgment-free zone. Assure the person that their thoughts and emotions won’t be criticized or dismissed. Avoid unsolicited advice or judgment. Simply listen with an open heart.
  • Be patient and understanding. People may take time to open up about their mental health struggles. Reassure them that you’re there for them.

Visit DoMore.Ag and find this article and others under the “Learn” tab. Click on Wellness Tips. The “Find Support” tab has mental health and crisis lines for every province.

Canola supported provincial programs

The grower organizations make financial contributions to mental health programs specific to their provinces.

Saskatchewan

SaskCanola is a proud sponsor of the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health, which oversees the Agricultural Health and Safety Network. This includes farm health and safety programming to rural schoolchildren, and rural clinics to assess farmers’ hearing capacity, respiratory system and mental health status. Visit
cchsa-ccssma.usask.ca/aghealth/index.php or call 1-306-966-6644

SaskCanola also provides financial support to the Farm Stress Line. Which provides expert support and crisis counselling 24-7. Call the toll free stress line at 1-800-667-4442 or visit farmstressline.ca to learn more.

Alberta

AgKnow aligns with Alberta Canola’s commitment to support farmers not only in their agronomic endeavors but also in fostering resilience and well-being. The organization strives to create a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue and de-stigmatizes seeking help for mental health challenges.

Visit agknow.ca or call 780-678-5984.

Manitoba

Manitoba Canola Growers is pleased to support the Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program. The program facilitates confidential, no-cost access to farmer-focused counsellors who understand the stress of farming.

Visit manitobafarmerwellness.ca or call 204-232-0574.