The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing launched the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line
People in Canadian ag requiring specific mental health support for farmers have a new resource available to them.
The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW) announced the launch of the free National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line.
Anyone in Canadian ag, whether a farmer, family member, employee or spouse, who dials 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701) will connect with a trained mental health professional trained in ag stressors who understands the challenges facing Canadian agriculture.
Support is available in English and French.
The mental health professionals are trained in the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program to provide specialized support for the ag sector.
Farm Credit Canada is supporting the hotline through a $1.5 million investment over three years.
CCAW started work on developing a hotline specific for Canadian ag in 2022.
Farmers have indicated that a lack of understanding of farm-specific stress acted as a barrier to seeking out mental health support.
A survey of 1,100 farmers from September 2015 to January 2026 by Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton from the University of Guelph found fewer than half of respondents believed there is adequate mental health support from the industry.
Bringing this resource to the farming community helps provide reassurance, said Dr. Briana Hagen, CEO and lead scientist at the CCAW.
“The National Farmer Wellness Network ensures farmers have access to vital, farm-tailored mental health support,” she said in a statement. “With FCC’s backing, it tackles industry-specific stressors and strengthens resilience in Canada’s agricultural communities.”
Anyone requiring mental health support can also call the national 9-8-8 mental health hotline.
In addition, Farms.com has compiled a list of mental health resources.