When The Strong Are Struggling: Farming and Mental Health in Canada

Suicidal ideation among Canadian farmers is nearly twice as high as in the general population.

Farming is more than a job, it’s a way of life. But the same pride and resilience that keep farms running can make it hard to ask for help when things start to fall apart.

In this episode, rural mental health therapist Chad Bouma joins host Buzz Bishop to talk about the emotional toll of isolation, burnout, and silence in farming communities and it’s impact on men’s health. As part of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, Chad supports farmers across the country offering insight into what stress looks like behind the scenes and how to recognize the signs before it’s too late.

Whether you’re on a tractor or know someone who is, this conversation reveals the hidden struggles many rural men face and what we can all do to help.

You’ll learn how to spot warning signs, why connection matters, our role with supporting mental health and where farmers can access free, confidential, 24/7 support.

 

National Farmer Crisis Line 1-866-FARMS01

Call anytime — 24/7, 365 days a year.

 

Follow Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing

• Website - https://ccaw.ca/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cdnagwellbeing/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Canadian-Centre-For-Agricultural-Wellbeing/100087880784194/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadian-centre-for-agricultural-wellbeing/
• X - https://x.com/CDNAgWellbeing

Follow Canadian Men’s Health Foundation

• Website - https://menshealthfoundation.ca/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/menshealthfdn/
• Facebook - https://facebook.com/menshealthfoundation

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Farmers' Mental Health

01:10 Meet Chad Boma: A Lifelong Connection to Farming

04:07 The Journey to the Canadian Center for Agricultural Wellbeing

06:33 Understanding Farmers' Mental Health Challenges

12:38 The Weight of Farming: Isolation and Responsibility

16:33 Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Issues

23:52 Support Systems and Resources for Farmers

31:49 You're Not Alone

Support Men & Their Familes: https://menshealthfoundation.ca/donate/

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