Farmers are no strangers to uncertainty—if anything, it’s an ongoing joke in the industry that the only thing you can ever truly count on is unpredictability.
From changing weather cycles to shifting markets, farming requires constant adaptations. But despite what can seem like an endless list of unknowns, certain patterns create a foundation for farmers to effectively conduct business—established trade relationships being one of them. The recent decision by the United States to impose tariffs of 25% on Canadian exports and 10% on Canadian energy disrupts that foundation, adding another layer of financial uncertainty to an industry already carrying a heavy burden.
If you’ve found yourself ‘doomscrolling’ lately, trying to make sense of the potential impact, and wondering what this means for your operation in the weeks and months to come, you’re not alone. Many across the industry—and the country—are grappling with the same questions. Questions that bring stress, anxiety, and frustration. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by what this new reality could bring.
Leaning on Community
During times like these, one the most powerful things we can do is lean on each other. While no one of us welcomes uncertainty, there’s some comfort in knowing that you’re not facing it alone. The response from Nova Scotians to these tariffs has been a testament to that.
What we’ve seen over the past few years is that Nova Scotia is strongest when we work together. Even as we face challenges, there’s been a renewed motivation to support local industries—including the work of you, our farmers. Now, more than ever, consumers want to have your backs.
Mental Health Matters
Trying to hold things together when everything around you feels uncertain is no easy task. In reality, it can seem impossible. The constant pressure of these outside forces can naturally take a toll on our mental health. That’s why it’s particularly important to recognize when you need support and to reach out when things start to feel overwhelming.
Farm Safety Nova Scotia wants to remind you that the We Talk. We Grow. initiative is here to provide resources, encourage honest conversations, and make ensure that mental health and well-being remains a priority across our farming community.
- Check in With Yourself and Others—It can be as simple as asking an honest question: How are you really doing? Checking in on friends, neighbours and fellow farmers can open the door for support when it’s needed most.
- Recognize the Strength in Vulnerability—Talking about stress, uncertainty, and mental health struggles doesn’t make you weak; in fact, it can be the nudge someone else might need to open up and share their own challenges. By starting that conversation, you’re helping to build a stronger, more connected community.
- Know that Support is Available—The We Talk. We Grow. website offers resources, tools, and information tailored for farmers. The Farm Family Support Line (1-833-754-3692) is also available 24/7 to offer short-term counselling, as well as expert legal and financial support at no cost (fully sponsored by Farm Safety Nova Scotia).
While the news about tariffs undoubtedly presents its own new set of challenges, it’s important to recognize that we have faced uncertainty before—and we have come through it together.
#WeTalkWeGrow
