116 Suicide Prevention Awareness okay?” Keep the conversation going by asking questions and listening to what they’re saying. You don’t have to offer solutions. If you’re still worried about them, ask: “Are you thinking about suicide?” If they say yes, don’t panic. Let them know you’re there for them and help them access mental health supports, including giving them the crisis line number, 1-833-456-4566. We as individuals can show and express emotion, ask for help when it’s needed, and let everyone else know that it’s okay to do that, too. We can also have more meaningful conversations by asking, “How are you really doing?” if we think they may be struggling. What can communities do to help reduce suicide among farmers? • Rural and remote communities can ensure access to the mental health supports that are available in-person, online, or by phone. Make people aware of these supports through information campaigns, including campaigns about suicide prevention, that seek to reduce stigma and increase help seeking and offers of help. • Communities can create opportunities for social connection by inviting people to get involved in an activity. • Supports and services tailored to farmers’ mental health should be developed as part of a national strategy (Jones-Bitton, n.d.). • Healthcare providers can identify people (particularly men) who may be thinking about suicide by being alert to subtle cues that may indicate they are struggling, such as body language and tone of voice. Better training is needed to ensure that these professionals are able to detect depression (Ogrodniczuk & Oliffe, 2011; Paraschakis et al., 2016). What can farmers do to stay mentally healthy? • Maintain and prioritize strong, positive relationships • Learn to share emotions and open up to supportive people • Create space and time for relaxation and self-care • Seek help when it’s needed, and explore options for mental health care offered online or on the phone • Know what resources are available for mental health care and financial support and to help you connect with other farmers www.suicideinfo.ca Resources and initiatives for farmers Do More Ag Foundation A not-for-profit organization focusing on mental health in agriculture across Canada through awareness, community building, and resources.These include Talk, Ask, Listen, a half-day mental health workshop specifically tailored to agriculture, and AgCulture, a program designed to teach mental health professionals about the unique stressors in agriculture. In the Know A four-hour mental health literacy workshop designed to show farmers how to help each other Rooted in Strength A mental health and mental wellness resource web page maintained by Farm Credit Canada Farm Stress Management An information sheet with helpful suggestions produced by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association Mental Health for Farmers – First Aid Kit An informative website by Ontario’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs with helpful resources for the mental health and wellness of farmers Au Coeur des Familles Agricoles – Milk Run Program (French only) A Quebec not-for-profit organization offering free support services for farmers, including checking in to assess their mental health, offering respite from the farm when needed, and intervening with farmers in distress Agriculture and suicide (continued)
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