There has been much more attention focused on the mental health of Canadian producers. Many suffer in silence. We continue our conversation with Gerry Friesen a Stress & Conflict Management Specialist and mental health advocate. On the last episode he shared his story on being diagnosed with depression and how he brought his illness into the open and made the decision to seek help.
As a recovering farmer Gerry talks about the stresses associated with agriculture, how to cope with the things in life we cannot control and how just talking to someone can be very therapeutic.
And, a report on women in agriculture sees both challenges and opportunities. Dr. Amber Fletcher is an associate professor with the University of Regina. She says women face challenges of sexism, discrimination, and access to financing.... but attitudes are changing. Amber will share the report's eight recommendation to support women in agriculture, including more childcare support and access to training.