Higher levels of stress, well-being is affected.
In the demanding world of farming, there are moments when anxiety levels rise, stressful situations become overwhelming, and we long for a much-needed break. It is during these challenging moments that recognizing the signs of mental distress becomes crucial, as addressing them promptly can prevent further impact on our wellbeing. Whether it’s for yourself or someone you deeply care about, this page is dedicated to providing the support and resources needed during such times.
The resources outlined below are intended to offer guidance and assistance, providing you or your loved ones with tools to navigate the storm.
We have a number of physical items to support mental health available at Farm Safety Nova Scotia. You can request your mental health kit which includes a stress ball, ear plugs, tissue pack, healthy eating resources, a poem on farmer resiliency, and a breathing card by e-mailing info@farmsafetyns.ca.
Farm Family Support Line
Reach out. Get Help. Feel Better.
The Farm Family Support Line is managed as an Employee Assistance Program by Telus Health. Farmers, their families and their employees have unlimited access to services at no cost. Services are supported by Farm Safety Nova Scotia.
Call for confidential and immediate support 24/7/365.
1-833-754-3692
Learn more about our Farm Family Support Line>
Obtenga más información sobre nuestro Centro de apoyo para familias agrícolas>
When to seek help
It can sometimes be challenging to recognize when you, or someone you care about, needs to seek outside help for their mental health. The below video, produced by the Upper Midwest Agriculture Safety and Health Centre outlines:
- The health statistics associated with mental health
- Factors contributing to farmer stress including finances, isolation and regulation
- The signs and symptoms of chronic stress which can lead to anxiety, depression and substance use
Rooted in Strength: Taking care of our families and ourselves
This booklet produced by Farm Credit Canada provides a number of tips and suggestions on how you can proactively support your mental health as well as employing useful tools when you find yourself struggling.
Or request a paper copy by emailing info@farmsafetyns.ca
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Farming Mental Health
Farming is more than just work for many; it’s a way of life that is rewarding despite the tough physical work. But now it’s becoming increasingly apparent that the unique challenges faced daily by farmers – from the long hours to the isolation to the many uncertainties beyond their control – can also greatly impact their mental health and well-being.
This infographic outlines some of the many stressors and how they can affect farmers, and what can be done to help support them so they can be healthy and thrive, even in times of uncertainty or stress.
This infographic was developed in partnership with the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association.
CAMH – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Mental Health Resources
Mental health resources on when to ask for help, coping with stress, and being alone in Canada are available upon request by e-mailing info@farmsafetyns.ca or by phoning 902-893-2293.
CAMH – centre de toxicomania et de sante mentale
RECURSOS DE SALUD Y BIENESTAR MENTAL
Los recursos de salud mental en español sobre cuándo pedir ayuda, lidiar con el estrés y estar solo en Canadá están disponibles a pedido, comunicándose con Margaret Ells, correo electrónico info@farmsafetyns.ca o teléfono 902-903-2293
Emergency Response Model for Mental Health During Agricultural Crisis
Emergency Response Model for Mental Health During Agricultural Crisis is a guidance document with evidence based recommendations for farmers to protect their mental health during an agricultural crisis such as a weather event or a disease outbreak on farm. The recommendations are based on Kelloway’s model for workplace mental health and broken into the three categories of prevention, intervention and recovery.
Learn more about the Emergency Response Model for Mental Health During Agricultural Crisis >
Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions
You’re not alone. We’re here to help. Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions offers a wide range of resources, supports and online tools for Nova Scotians.
CAST: Communities Addressing Suicide Together
CAST is a program under the scope of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Nova Scotia Division in which they are helping to build their capacity to address suicide by using the principles of community suicide prevention as a guide.
As part of the CAST program, a Nova Scotia’s Survivors of Suicide Loss Guide is available which includes information to access supports and resources available when dealing with a loss.
Download a copy of the Nova Scotia’s Survivors of Suicide Loss Guide.
Mobile Apps to Support Mental Health and Wellness
There are a number of apps available that can help you maintain and care for your mental health and wellness. The following applications all offer free resources, as well as additional supports available at cost. Please note that these mobile apps are not affiliated with Farm Safety Nova Scotia and the use of these external services does not replace the advice, guidance and support provided by health providers. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
- Avail – well-being, resilience, and support assistant. Leverage your psychological, physical, and social resources to proactively maintain and recover personal well-being & resilience. Click to download
- Calm – mental fitness, relaxation, & Sleep Click to download
- Pay it Forward Click to download
- Doodle App
- Doodle Drawing App for Google Play Click to download
- Doodle Art-Draw.ing for Apple Click to download
Farm Safety Nova Scotia has local trained facilitators to deliver this in-person or virtual four-hour workshop who relate to the challenges that the farming community experiences in Nova Scotia.
Objectives:
- To provide an overview of stress, anxiety, depression, acute trauma, substance use and suicide
- To identify signs and symptoms of mental distress
- To provide information on how to have a safe conversation about mental health with someone who may be struggling
- To provide an overview of ways to support mental health
Email info@farmsafetyns.ca or call 902-893-2293 to arrange to attend this course
Do More Ag Website
The Do More Ag Foundation champions mental health in agriculture.
Talk, Ask, Listen Workshop
Created by farmers for farmers, this half day workshop or webinar aims to inform, be accessible and break down barriers though talking, asking and listening.
The workshop provides information on topics such as:
- The signs and symptoms of mental illness, anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use, including the unique statistics and factors the agriculture industry experiences.
- What support looks like depending on your level of education, experience, and training.
- How to prepare and have conversations with someone who you identify may be experiencing a mental health challenge.
- How to support others and yourself and how to access resources.
- Self care and prevention strategies for mental wellness.
If your farm, organization or group would like to bring this training to your community or team please explore https://www.domore.ag/programs-workshops or contact hello@domore.ag for more information.
