Recommendations
As a minority group in Ontario, under-represented in the study of mental health, OFA believes farmers’ mental health deserves special attention and the investment of long-term, dedicated funding from all levels of government.
Federal and provincial governments must work collaboratively to fully implement the 10 recommendations from the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture & Agri-Food's report, Mental Health: A Priority for our Farmers.
The Ontario farm community needs accessible and culturally relevant mental health resources and training to promote wellness and build resilience to withstand the enormous occupational stresses they face. We have a tremendous opportunity to build a sustainable approach to research, develop evidence-based programming, and create awareness and support specific for farmer mental health.
List of Recommendations from the Report
Examine the process of agricultural audits and labour reviews to:
- reduce stress and disruption to producers and employees
- consider relevant practical experience when hiring and assigning auditors
When developing agricultural regulations, consider the impact and stress by:
- giving ample time for consultation
- inform those affected from beginning to the end of the process
- withdraw or amend regulation if it negatively impacts the sector
Engage with farmers and agricultural groups to develop and consider:
- public awareness campaigns and strategies to combat cyber-bullying, intimidation and threats
- inclusion of such threats based on occupation and place of residence as a Criminal Code offense
Accelerate the deployment of high-speed Internet infrastructure in Canada’s rural and remote regions.
Work with the recognized and accredited organizations to better tailor mental health care and insurance coverage to farmers’ specific needs.
Invest in educating business partners and other stakeholders who work with farmers to detect the signs of psychological disorders and distress in order to refer them to resources that can help them.
Contribute to building capacity in mental health awareness and prevention so that future farmers are informed of the challenges they may face.
Fund the activities of recognized and accredited organizations that provide mental health assistance to farmers and their families in cooperation with provinces and territories.
National coordination of various research and prevention activities targeting the mental health of farmers.
Telephone help lines and e-mental health services for farmers and Canadians living in rural areas.
Mental Health: A Priority for our Farmers Report
OFA Position
OFA supports farmers and farm families towards balanced mental health and acknowledge the causes of mental health challenges are many, complicated, and do not come with a quick or easy solution. OFA understands the challenges of farming and that they can take a toll on our mental health and wellbeing.
OFA recognizes the challenge of mental health in agriculture is a complex and multi-factorial issue and believe it requires a comprehensive and coordinated, long-term approach. Through advocacy and support, OFA will work to help reduce the barriers to improved mental health and resilience within our agricultural community.