New Study By The Do More Agriculture Foundation Reveals Opportunities to Strengthen Support and Mental Health Advocacy Across Canadian Agricultural Industry
Saskatoon, SK - The Do More Agriculture Foundation (Do More Ag) is pleased to share the findings of their recently concluded research project, “Measuring Impact and Future Action,” and announce a strategic direction for the Foundation.
In 2021, Do More Ag received funding from the Agri-Diversity Program to better understand the state of mental health awareness, educational offerings and resource delivery in the Canadian agricultural industry.
“The Do More Ag initiatives are essential to open dialogue and eliminate the stigma around mental health in the agricultural sector. The expertise they have developed over the years now enables them to look at diversity in the sector, provide a more adapted response and find tailored solutions to each individual’s unique reality,’’ says the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Led by Wilton Consulting Group and Openly, this project has evaluated Do More’s overall contribution and impact, presented recommendations for the next steps, and identified a critical path forward, all with the important lens of serving traditionally underrepresented groups in the Canadian agricultural sector.
“We are thankful for all the insights people involved in the Canadian agricultural industry shared over the course of the research,” says Dr. Bronwynne Wilton, the Principal and Lead Consultant at WCG. “These insights highlighted some of the strengths in this field, such as the increased conversations and awareness about mental health. The discussions also clearly identified areas where more work needs to be done, such as embracing inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA), so that people feel safe and welcome in our industry.”
“We are immensely proud to have contributed to reducing the stigma of mental health and to have helped pave the way for conversation and tangible action in agriculture,” says Board Chair Lauren Martin, “As our organization has evolved along with the conversation around mental health, it was time for us to reflect on next steps.”
Among the many recommendations identified by the recently concluded research project, Do More Ag will continue to champion a healthy culture in agriculture by focusing on the following:
Expanding its reach across the nation and across commodities and incorporating diversity in its outreach. i.e. the language of service offerings;
Serving as an activator and connector among the diversity of individuals, companies, and organizations supporting mental health in the agricultural sector;
Strengthening existing partnerships to better leverage unique skill sets by hosting regular partner dialogues;
As a connector, we will seek to push research, resources, programs and services out to the agricultural community;
Continue exploring the root causes of mental health stressors and facilitate knowledge transfer between trusted advisors, farmers, their families and elected officials;
Continue to enhance the mental health community’s understanding of agriculture through programs like AgCulture.
The foundation cannot think of better next steps in achieving Do More Ag’s founding vision to ‘do more’ for the agricultural community we serve.
“Last year the foundation’s focus was on listening and learning; this not only involved our work with the Wilton Group and Openly, but it also took me across Canada speaking with farmers, industry reps, organizations, researchers and elected officials,” says Executive Director Megz Reynolds. “I am so thankful to everyone who participated in our research project and took the time to engage and share.One of the most common asks throughout the past year has been for peer-to-peer support, we are excited to share that we have been working on that, and we have launched AgTalk as a result.”
With 24/7 bilingual clinical moderation, AgTalk, powered by Togetherall, ensures a secure environment for open discussions on mental health.
“Once again, thank you to the Agri-Diversity Program and to everyone who participated through interviews, the survey, focus groups and our advisory team”, adds Megz Reynolds.
Overall, Do More Ag will continue to fill the gap and be a connector between the resources that exist (and those that are being developed at an exciting new pace) and those in the Canadian agricultural community that are in need of support.
“As the Farmer Mental Health Expert Advisor for this project, I was privileged to be among many collaborators who contributed their industry knowledge, personal experiences and vision for the future of mental health in Canadian agriculture,” says Bonnie Taylor, MSW, RSW. “The open discussions reinforced the urgency of addressing and supporting the mental health and wellness needs for all members of the agricultural industry, particularly for traditionally underrepresented groups. I look forward to witnessing the positive outcomes for the mental health and wellness of everyone in the agricultural industry once these recommendations are implemented.”
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About The Do More Agriculture Foundation:
The Do More Agriculture Foundation is the national voice and champion for mental health in Canadian agriculture and is changing the culture to one where all are encouraged, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental wellbeing. By collaborating with industry, government, and those working to address mental health, we can and will make a substantial Impact.
About AgriDiversity:
The AgriDiversity Program aims to help underrepresented groups in Canadian agriculture, including youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities, to fully participate in the sector by helping these groups address the key issues and barriers they often face for sector participation.
About Wilton Consulting Group:
Wilton Consulting Group (WCG) is based in Fergus, ON, and focuses on facilitating sustainability and innovation in agri-food and rural systems through a change management approach. WCG offers a specialized agri-food sector research consulting service with deep connections across the Canadian industry. WCG’s research strengths draw upon a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods and approaches. WCG collaborated with Farm Management Canada on its Healthy Minds, Healthy Farms study. WCG has also supported such national clients as the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute.
About Openly:
Openly is a certified B-Corp™ company co-founded in 2017 by Lisa Watson and Tanya Darisi to channel their commitment to equity, inclusion and meaningful social impact. Openly exists to support changemakers across sectors in achieving and amplifying their social impact. Since its launch, Openly has grown into a networked practice that offers connection to a full suite of field leaders and subject matter experts.
About Bonnie Taylor:
Bonnie Taylor grew up in a rural, agricultural area, and currently lives on a farm outside of Waterloo, ON. Bonnie is a Psychotherapist and Registered Social Worker and has a private practice offering therapy services remotely. Over the past 25 years, Bonnie has demonstrated her passion about providing mental health support to individuals (14+), couples and families in Ontario. Her areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, stress, grief/loss, relationship challenges, life transitions, disabilities, chronic or acquired health conditions.