New partnership ensures 24-hour counselling for farmers and families
The Government of Saskatchewan has announced a new step to improve mental health services for farmers and their families. Starting April 1, SaskAgMatters Mental Health Network Inc. will manage the Farm Stress Line as part of a coordinated support system for people working in agriculture.
This partnership aims to provide better and faster access to mental health care. Farmers, their family members, and employees can now receive 24/7 confidential support from trained crisis counsellors who understand agricultural life. In addition, users can access follow-up counselling sessions with registered mental health professionals based in Saskatchewan who have experience in agriculture.
The Farm Stress Line number, 1-800-667-4442, will remain the same. Farmers can call for help with a wide range of issues, including financial stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, family challenges, or concern for others. The service is designed to ensure privacy and comfort for those seeking help.
The program is supported by $200,000 per year for two years from the Government of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada. This funding is provided through the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a major five-year investment plan to strengthen the agriculture sector across the country.
SaskAgMatters is a local organization made up of farmers and mental health experts. It works to remove barriers such as cost, time, and access to care. Through its partnership with the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, the organization will also connect users to the National Farmer Crisis Line for additional support.
Leaders highlighted the importance of this initiative. “Farmers withstand unique demands and challenges that affect not only their physical health, but also mental wellbeing. This partnership ensures that when members of our agricultural community reach out, they are connected with a mental health professional who truly understands their reality,” said Heath MacDonald, Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
“SaskAgMatters was founded to break down the barriers that Saskatchewan farm families face when trying to get help. We have removed the time and stress involved in finding a mental health professional and cover the financial cost of these services. Our counsellors offer flexible appointment times and will meet by telephone or virtually,” said Cynthia Beck, SaskAgMatters Board Chair and Co-founder.
Overall, the improved Farm Stress Line services aim to protect the health of agricultural workers by offering trusted, easy-to-access support tailored to their needs.
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