About the Community Spotlight:
We know that conversations about mental health in agriculture are most powerful when they come from within the community itself — from the people who live it every day.
Through our Community Spotlight series, we’re sharing the voices of our We Talk. We Grow. Champions and Ambassadors: individuals who are helping break the silence and make space for meaningful conversations around mental wellness on and off the farm.
In this edition, we’re featuring We Talk. We Grow. Champion, Janette McDonald.
Can you tell us about your connection to agriculture — whether you’re farming or supporting farmers — and what inspired you to get involved in the industry?
I grew up on a dairy farm and now dairy farm with my husband and our children. I work off-farm as well as the Executive Director of the Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia.
Why do you think mental health is such an important topic in the farming community?
While farming provides a way of life like no other industry, it also comes with risks out of our control. Being able to manage the ups and downs, constant stress, and being financially stable can be really hard. Being able to access help and support and reducing the stigma of mental health challenges is so needed.
Is there a moment or season that challenged you the most? How did you get through it?
2023 was a tough season. It was our first really hard year since we had taken on farm ownership. Every day it rained, I felt stress like I hadn’t experienced before. I knew there were so many others going through it too. My way of coping is to break things down into small, manageable pieces and letting go of things that don’t need my immediate attention. I’ve also become better at being ok with the things I cannot change, like the weather.
How do you think farmers and their support networks can better support each other?
Farmers need to talk and share. Take 15 minutes and stop and chat to a neighbour. Grab a coffee or snack and chat on the phone. There is power in conversation.
What’s one small thing you do to take care of your mental health on a regular basis?
Keeping up with a hobby or something creative. Gardening, baking, crafting are all things I enjoy. Prioritizing those things is important for me. Going out and doing some fun with kids is something I schedule too.
What’s one piece of advice and you’d give to someone—whether they’re a farmer or supporting farmers—who’s struggling?
Reach out. There is community here and we want to support you. It’s one of the reasons I am in agriculture. I love the people who feel this calling.
See you next time!
Stay tuned for more stories in our Community Spotlight series, and if their words resonated with you, consider sharing this blog post with someone who might need to hear it.
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