The Do More Agriculture Foundation

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Mental Health Impact Of Floods In Manitoba 

It has been a very difficult start to the growing season for many farmers in Manitoba who faced heavy rains prior to and during their seeding window. High stress from uncontrollable weather conditions this spring coming on the tails of inflated fertilizer and fuel costs have made for some hard decisions, as well as increasing the weight of what making it through another year may look like. 

Western Canada only really gets one shot at growing a crop per year, and the window to seed is quite small to allow the plant to have the growing days needed to produce a yield and dry down for harvest. Having fields and acres underwater at seeding time means that a field may need to sit empty all season even if the flood waters can be pumped off or absorbed into the soil. A field that cannot be seeded is a field that does not have a chance at producing revenue to help cover the costs of the land itself, contribute to the overall business expenses and possibly create a profit to support the farm and farm  family.

So what we can we do? 

While we are navigating challenges it is important to remember and focus on the things that are within our control, here are 5 reminders of what is in our control. 

  1. Understand your situation. Some individuals may find it helpful to understand the situations. When we are close to the situation, it can be hard to look at the circumstances we are in. Talking to people you trust, such as a partner, close friend, neighbour, or maybe even your business advisor can give you another perspective and perhaps they are able to show you something you missed. 

  2. Validate your feelings. As producers, we often put on our tough faces to help us get through the stress, but it’s important for us to take a moment and recognize what we are feeling. Understanding our emotions helps us process them. 

  3. Ask The Question. We are often nervous about having a potentially hard conversation, but asking someone how they are really doing, might save their life. If you are noticing a change in a neighbour, friend or family member it might be time to reach out. Here are 6 symptoms of stress of the farm

  4. Take care of your mind and body. Stressful situations can impact our body and mind, try to ensure you are getting the rest, sleep and nutrients your body needs. Learn about the 7 types of rest each farmer needs here

  5. Ask for help. A problem shared is a problem halved. Asking for help can be asking a loved one for some extra support, it can be bringing up how you are feeling, calling a crisis line or it can be seeking professional help like therapy. Local resources are available, visit https://www.domore.ag/crisis-contacts today. 

Manitoba Resources:

For crisis support: 

Manitoba Farm, Rural & Northern Support Services 

1-866-367-3276

www.supportline.ca

No-cost counselling and support to Manitoba farm families: 

Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program

https://manitobafarmerwellness.ca/

1-204-232-0574