We applied for, and are grateful to have received, funding through the Canadian Agriculture Partnership’s (CAP) COVID-19 Agriculture Response Program. The funding will support the development of a Mental Health Action Plan for Nova Scotia Farmers, which will include specific resources tailored to address the unique challenges and stressors presented in our region. Initial work has begun on the development of the Action Plan, and more information will be shared with our community in the coming months.
We also understand that immediate supports need to be put in place for our farmers, their employees and their families. This is why we have organized and scheduled a number of webinar and workshop options to be offered through Farm Safety Nova Scotia at no cost in the coming months and into the new year.
- Mental Health First Aid, November 21 & 22 from 8:30am – 4:30pm.
- Mental Fitness 101: Foundational Elements to Building a Mental Fitness Plan, led by Dr. Bill Howatt: December 4th, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
- Coping with Isolation and Loneliness, led by a member of the Howatt HR Team: February 9th, 11:30am – 12:30pm
- Navigating Crisis, led by a member of the Howatt HR Team: March 18th, 11:30am – 12:30pm
More information on these programs can be found on our events page. Search the date and click on the program title to access the full description.
We also want to remind everyone of the Maintaining Mental Fitness during COVID-19 section that has been added to the Farm Safe Nova Scotia website. This page was created to make sure that farmers had resources available to support both themselves and their families throughout the global pandemic. One of the resources available is the “Eight Domains of Well-Being” by Dr. Andrea Jones-Bitton.
If you, or anyone on your farm is experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact 911 to get help right away. Our Farm Family Support Centre is also available 24/7, managed through our Member Assistance Program by Morneau Shepell (MAP), where farmers and their families are able to access up to three hours of service at no cost.
