Prince Edward County announces mental health training sessions geared towards farmers

This full-day training focuses on strategies and tools to identify the signs of mental distress, react to farmers at risk, and connect individuals with appropriate mental health and crisis resources.

The training workshop is offered through the Guardian Network, a volunteer, peer-driven community of mental health advocates that supports Ontario’s farming community. The Guardian Network also includes ongoing peer connection and continuous learning for trained Guardians.

The role of a Guardian is to reduce mental health stigma in agricultural communities by promoting access to mental health supports, Agriculture Wellness Ontario programs, and fostering mental health conversations with farmers who may be in distress.

Research has found that nearly 70 per cent of farmers are more susceptible than the general population to chronic stress, which can lead to physical and mental illness. Furthermore, 58 per cent of farmers meet the classification for anxiety while 45 per cent report high stress and 35 per cent meet the classification for depression.

The seven-hour training session will be offered on December 11 at the North Marysburgh Town Hall and on December 12 at the Ameliasburgh Town Hall. The training is in person and will run from 9 am to 5 pm. Refreshments will be provided.

This training is open to anyone over the age of 18 who is likely to be in contact with farmers through their work, volunteer activities, or their place in their community. Register today at https://bit.ly/3QgXAfD.

Learn more about the Guardian Network. If you have questions or require further information, contact Bethany Parkinson at 1.800.875.6213 or bparkinson@ontario.cmha.ca.”