Through the Farmer Wellness Initiative, the provincial and federal governments are funding access for up to four free counselling sessions with a mental health professional for all farmers across Ontario including members of their family. The mental health professionals have received training to understand the unique needs of Ontario farmers.

Developed and launched by the Canadian Mental Health Association – Ontario Division in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, this service is provided by LifeWorks.

Recently Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton at the University of Guelph conducted a national survey of Canadian farmers. The results revealed that: 

45% were classified as having high levels of perceived stress

57% met the criteria for anxiety classification

35% met the criteria for depression classification