WELLNESS ON THE FARM

By Bethany Storey, BFO Communications Specialist and Darby Wheeler, BFO Policy Advisor

Feeling Burned Out? You’re Not Alone.

While farmers face weather challenges on a regular basis, the drought and dry conditions this year have added a layer of stress and anxiety to farm planning for many individuals and their families, and these situations can take a toll on our mental health. It is important during these difficult times to reach out to friends and neighbours to provide support to those who may need it while at the same time not forgetting to take care of yourself.

There are numerous mental health resources available and people to talk with if you or someone you know may be struggling at this time. Listed below are mental health resources, including mental health resources geared towards the agriculture sector. These resources aim to improve stress management strategies, start the mental health conversation and/or locate necessary mental health services.

Ontario Mental Health Line - ConnexOntario

Provides free and confidential health services information for people experiencing mental illness by connecting them with services in their area. They are funded by the Government of Ontario. Available 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600.

You can also use a chat online, email, and access additional resources from www.connexontario.ca.

The Farmers’ Toolbox

This website serves as a mental health resource database. The information has been curated for farmers, anyone in the agricultural industry and residents of rural Ontario.

For more details, visit www.thefarmerstoolbox.com.

Do More Ag

Do More Ag is a not-for-profit organization focusing on mental health in agriculture across Canada.

For more details, visit www.domore.ag/resources.

Distress & Crisis Ontario

At one of Ontario’s Distress Centres you can find a listening ear for anyone who is feeling lonely, depressed, suicidal, or struggling otherwise. Most centres operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and include Suicide Survivor programs, support services for youth, telephone call-out programs for seniors and other vulnerable populations, mental health crisis lines, and more.

A complete listing of regional centres and contact information is available at www.dcontario.org/centres

BounceBack Ontario

BounceBack is a free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). It is designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression and anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered over the phone with a coach and through online videos, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness.

Learn more at bouncebackontario.ca.

Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iBCT)

Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) is a practical, short-term program delivered online. It helps people develop skills and strategies to address symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression.

To sign up, visit myicbt.com/home

Help Starts Here

Help Starts Here features online social workers and resources to help you help yourself. This site also lists thousands of clinical social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and other licensed mental health professionals.

To learn more, visit www.helpstartshere.org/

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call: 911, visit your local emergency room or call the crisis line ConnexOntario 1.866.531.2600 OB