Holding it all together: mental health and the farming life
Farming comes with deep roots — in land, in family, and in tradition. But it’s also one of the most stressful jobs in Canada. Between long days, unpredictable weather, isolation, and economic pressures, the mental load can feel overwhelming.
According to research from the University of Guelph, one in four Alberta farmers feel like life isn’t worth living. That’s not just a number — it’s a staggering reality that reflects just how heavy the weight of farming can be.
That’s why we’re talking about it, and why we want farmers to know they’re not alone.
Farming-related stress can be more harmful than you think
Many farmers experience high levels of stress without realizing how much it’s affecting them. According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, the mental health toll in farming communities is significant:
57% experience anxiety
45% report high stress
35% experience depression
Yet, 40% say they feel uneasy asking for help, often due to stigma or the belief that stress is “just part of the job.”
Stress doesn’t just impact your mood; if left unchecked it can affect your sleep, memory, relationships, and decision-making. Over time, it may lead to burnout, unhealthy coping behaviors, or suicidal thoughts.
Warning signs to watch for
Farming isn’t a job that you can clock out of, and it can feel like there’s little time to prioritize your mental health. The idea that you just need to “tough it out” has been around for a long time, but it does more harm than good.
Early signs that stress might be taking a toll include:
Feeling constantly on edge or easily frustrated
Trouble sleeping or staying focused
Withdrawing from others or feeling disconnected
Using alcohol or substances to cope
Feeling numb, hopeless, or stuck in “survival mode”
These signs don’t mean something’s wrong with you. They’re your body’s way of telling you that it's time to take care of yourself. It’s like your tractor’s check engine light: ignoring it might keep you moving for a while but sooner or later, it leads to bigger problems. Taking the time to check in now can prevent a serious breakdown later.
What you can do today
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t mean you need to step away from the farm for hours a day. Small, realistic changes can make a big difference — especially when they work with your routine.
Use time on the tractor wisely: Long hours in the tractor or combine? Call a friend, listen to a podcast, or check in with someone you trust.
·Do regular check-ins: Take a moment to ask yourself, “How am I doing lately?” “What do I need right now?” Treat your mental health like any other important check-up and listen to what your body’s trying to tell you.
Connect with neighbours: Stop at your neighbour's house on the way home from the farm — even if it’s just for a few minutes. Make these small connections count by asking them, “How’s it going? How are you really feeling?” Sometimes, just being heard and having a safe space to talk can make a big difference.
Focus on what you can control: With so many factors outside of your control, focus on the simple things you can control — eating healthy meals, drinking plenty of water, getting proper sleep, and moving your body. When stress is high, basic self-care matters more than ever.
Set a “worry timer:” Give yourself 10 minutes to think through your worries and then shift your focus to something productive or calming. When we focus on the stress, we can fall into a rabbit hole of anxiety. Instead, shift your focus to a new task, connecting with a friend, or taking a moment to ground yourself.
Asking for help takes strength
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, rural men are twice as likely to die by suicide as urban men. The risks are real, but so is the support available.
In farming, when something breaks, you fix it. You call the right person, get the right tool, and get back to work. Your mental health deserves that same attention. A counsellor is someone trained to help you manage stress, navigate tough situations, and build coping tools that work for your lifestyle.
At Counselling Alberta, you can access confidential, farm-informed and judgment-free support from wherever you are — even from your truck or tractor. Phone and video counselling options mean you don’t need to take any time off or drive to the nearest city. Take the first step towards a healthier you and reach out to us today.
Information for this blog post was provided by registered social worker, Che Burnett.