Resources included are intended for informational purposes only and are not Porch Light affiliates

IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS, PLEASE VISIT YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT,  CALL 911 OR TEXT 988

The Alberta Health Services Mental Health Help Line is a 24 hour, 7 day a week, 365 days a year, confidential service that provides support, information, and referrals to Albertans experiencing mental health concerns.

1-877-303-2642

IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS,  TEXT 9-8-8 

CANADA'S SUICIDE CRISIS HELP LINE

Farming and ranching are considered two of the most stressful occupations, both physically and mentally. Unique factors associated with agricultural work may contribute to poor mental health outcomes and even suicide. Follow the link to learn more.

Through AHS, this service provides assessment, treatment, and follow up to individuals experiencing moderate to severe addiction and mental health concerns.

Working across the lifespan, clinicians work with individuals and families to identify goals of treatment as they relate to Addiction and Mental Health concerns.

An Alberta Approach to Farm Mental Health - AgKnow provides access to therapists who focus on resiliency in farming communities across Alberta.  AgKnow offers therapy sessions with therapists who understand the issues impacting agriculture in Alberta. 

The Do More Agriculture Foundation is the national voice and champion for mental health in Canadian agriculture and is changing the culture of agriculture to one where all are encouraged, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental wellbeing. Those working in the agriculture industry are among the most vulnerable when it comes to mental health issues.

Do More Ag has compiled a list of therapists in Alberta. Click the link below and then scroll down to the middle of the page for the provincial listings.

The Do More Agricultural Foundation provides an online platform designed specifically for individuals in the Canadian agriculture industry. This foundation operates across Canada.  In a safe, anonymous space, connect with an online mental health community who understand your unique experiences. 

https://www.domore.ag/

Amy Monea is a Therapist, Registered Social Worker and Rancher who makes her home near Carstairs, Alberta. She operates an equine facilitated counselling practice called Heard Wellness Through Horses from Rafter U7 Ranch and Wellness Centre along with providing virtual sessions and in office sessions. Rafter U7 Ranch is also a home to a commercial cow calf operation with diversification in miniature cattle. Amy grew up on a family operated dairy farm which sold the quota when she was in elementary school and transitioned to a commercial cattle mixed farming operation.

amy.monea@heardwellness.ca

403-337-0163

Wild Horse Psychotherapy offers virtual counseling for those in rural communities by making therapy sessions accessible to everyone. I provide a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic space for you to be seen and heard, where together we can work towards your personal treatment goals and self-understanding. I have a long history of working with trauma and naturally connect well with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, interpersonal relationships, addiction, overwhelm, emotional regulation, guilt and shame, grief and loss, chronic pain, stress, sleep disturbance and more.

Sessions are 50-60 minutes and $150/session (VIDEO or PHONE ONLY)

*Most employment benefits cover psychotherapy, but it would be the responsibility of the client to submit their invoices for coverage directly. Wild Horse Psychotherapy is registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and eligible for benefit redemption if applicable*

Aidan Nicholson is a lawyer who handles all agriculture-related matters, primarily estate and succession planning and agricultural disputes. He is heavily immersed in the ag world and comes from a family that lost their farm, giving him an intimate understanding of the challenges producers face. His ag law chops have been recognized by many publications including Western Horse Review. Contact him today for carefully crafted assistance with any ag-related legal matters you may be contending with.

anicholson@fieldlaw.com

(403) 260-8528

Annessa Good-Hassard created Peak Heritage Consulting Ltd. to assist families with their transition/succession planning process a completely independent advisor. Annessa has been honoured to sit at the table with over 500 families and learn about their family and operations.

With this extensive experience, Annessa understands the inter-dependence and complexities of inter-generational family farm/ranch issues and concerns.

To learn more please contact Annessa at 403-994-2780 or

PeakHeritageConsulting@Outlook.com

Tinsmith Agriculture is dedicated to protecting your legacy. Tinsmith Ag offers free resources  to aid in your succession and estate planning. 

Link below for a free succession planning guide:

https://www.tinsmithagriculture.com/uploads/1/4/8/5/148528420/to_steward_or_squander.pdf

Ashley Hygaard is dedicated to helping Canadian families succeed with their finances no matter their starting point. She can help with all aspects of financial planning from starting out, saving and investing, proper protection (life insurance, critical illness, disability), succession or retirement planning, and the list continues. Appointments can be done from the comfort of your home whether online or in person, and always free of charge to the client. 

Reach out for more information at 587-225-6576 or ahygaard10bhsc@wfgmail.ca

Cows in Control works with cattle producers on strategies for profitability but also protection of risk on their cattle operations.  Price risk is one of the biggest variables to profitability, and we work with producers to set up strategies on their cattle to manage it.   We keep producers up to date on what is happening in the industry.  Our goal is to see ranchers and feedlot owners profit and thrive safely for long term success.

At Ranch Your Way, Winnie & Lacy believe that gaining control over your financial experience begins with a shift in mindset. Our mission is to bridge the financial divide, by first showing you how it is possible to make borrowing from others "Plan B" when it comes to financing. By focusing on this one area it will help your operations reclaim control of the direction of your wealth and future. We provide more than just financial education — we have a compassionate & empowering approach when it comes to walking with you in your journey to build a legacy of prosperity. With tools tailored for your season of life we will guide you to be free from the constraints of traditional lending and government reliance. Together, we will heal the financial divide and create a ripple effect of generational wealth one family at a time. Ultimately when you can solve the ability to keep more money, it becomes easier to have clarity in your estate planning. 

Men's Sheds is based on a simple concept: Improve our members' physical and mental health through activities men will actually join. Men's Shed offers men an alternate way to reach out to avoid 'isolation' while giving back to society.

https://www.mensshedscanada.ca/

MenTell provides an easy and comfortable way for men to discuss personal issues weighing on their mind. 

Check out their socials @mentell.ca

Wild Courage is founded on the principle that hope comes from hearing and it takes courage to share. Supporting Men's Mental Health, they offer fireside chats and retreats in Idaho. They also have a powerful podcast by Jeremy Morris, who says he's lived a wild life and now shares stories of hope and redemption for the hopeless man.

https://www.thewildcourage.org/

Bump, Birth & Beyond is an integrative clinic that transforms the healthcare experience. They meet the needs of people and families as they navigate pregnancy, birth, and up to ten years postpartum.  Amongst many services, they offer low-risk maternity care and lactation/feeding support. 

Join two holistic healers as they discuss life in rural Canada and the importance of creating a community that supports you. Their goal is to create a movement for all of us who know we were meant for more. The are alongside us in our journey, so let's step up to our highest potential and live our best damn life!

Join their group on Facebook or listen to their podcast, especially the episode about Porch Light Society!

Our team strives to bring together rural and western women to do more of what really matters, while balancing multiple roles between the ranch or farm, home, small business and our personal goals. We forge authentic connection around productivity and pursuit that is firmly rooted in purpose and presence.

Snowdon, W. (2023, November 1).  “Study explores common risks and resiliencies in farmers’ mental health crisis.” CBC News. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/farmer-mental-health-study-alberta-1.7014041

The author explores a research study from the University of Alberta that identifies risks associated with the mental health crisis and increased rates of suicide among farmers. Additionally, an Alberta farmer shares his experience of mental health struggles as a result of unpredictable stressors. By sharing his story, he hopes to encourage others in similar situations to speak up and seek help. Included is a list of resources for those seeking support.

Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2022, March 30). “Agriculture and Suicide Fact Sheet.” https://mentalhealthcommission.ca/resource/agriculture-and-suicide/. Mental Health Commission of Canada.

This fact sheet from the Mental Health Commission of Canada provides readers with statistics and information on why farmers are at higher risk of suicide than other professions. It outlines steps communities can take to address this issue, including reducing risk, offering tips for farmers to maintain mental health, and features a warning signs checklist. Additionally, it offers a valuable list of resources and initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and ranchers.

FloRodeo Staff. (2019, January 30). “ Let’s Talk Mental Health in Rodeo.” https://www.florodeo.com/articles/6338123-lets-talk-mental-health-in-rodeo. FloRodeo.

This article from FloRodeo addresses the significant impact of concussions and head trauma on the mental health of rodeo athletes. It highlights the efforts of the Ty Pozzobon Foundation in raising awareness and providing financial support to riders dealing with both the mental and physical consequences of head injuries. Included are links to videos related to concussion awareness and mental health.

Seskus, T. (2018, May 1). “Women in Canada are choosing farming careers but barriers persist.” CBC News, Business. https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/women-farming-canada-1.4595436

The article addresses the rising proportion of female farmers and the growing enrolment of women in agriculture-based studies. Despite these positive trends, the industry remains male-dominated, with persistent workplace stereotyping and significant barriers. Challenges that women face in the industry and recommendations moving forward are discussed. 

Kienlen, A. (2019, August 12). “Film about farming women shows how times have changed – and how old stereotypes still linger.” https://www.albertafarmexpress.ca/news/not-just-farmers-wives-and-farmers-daughters/. Alberta Farmer Express.

The author interviews filmmaker, Kelsey van Moorsel, creator of a 20 minute documentary entitled Picture a Farmer, which explores the roles of women in agriculture. Kelsey explains that the documentary challenges the traditional perception that women in agriculture are primarily seen as wives or daughters of farmers rather than farmers themselves. The article includes a hyperlink to the documentary, providing readers with the opportunity to view the film.

Jeffers-Bezan, M. (2024, March 18). “Managing mental health during succession planning on the family farm.” https://www.canadiancattlemen.ca/features/managing-mental-health-during-succession-planning-on-the-family-farm/. Canadian Cattlemen, Business Management. 

This article explores the emotional challenges associated with succession planning and transition on family farms, emphasizing the impact on mental wellness, which is often already strained. Strategies for coping with stress during these transitions are discussed, including the benefits of ag-informed therapy. 

Smith Thomas, H. (2020, February 5). “Linking mental health and animal welfare.” https://www.canadiancattlemen.ca/features/linking-mental-health-and-animal-welfare-2/. Canadian Cattlemen, Livestock.

This article highlights the role of veterinary social worker, Erin Wasson, in supporting individuals involved in animal husbandry, highlighting challenges faced by vulnerable individuals during circumstances beyond their control. The discussion emphasizes the importance of eradicating the stigma surrounding mental health and advocates for increased education and resources.