A new Manitoba‑based research project is calling on farmers and agricultural service providers to share their experiences as part of a province‑wide study on farmer wellness. The initiative, led by the Centre for Critical Studies of Rural Mental Health (CCSRMH) at Brandon University, aims to better understand “what works” when it comes to supporting mental health in the agriculture sector.
Unlike many studies that focus primarily on stressors and challenges, this project takes a strengths‑based approach. Researchers want to hear directly from producers and ag‑industry workers about the strategies, supports, and personal strengths that help them stay well while navigating the pressures of modern farming.
“This research is about listening to farmers and ag service providers and learning from what’s already working,” says Tracy Young, Principal Investigator with CCSRMH. “Hearing directly from farmers and those who support them is key to shaping meaningful approaches to wellness.”
The study is inviting two groups to participate:
- Farmers, including owners, operators, farm employees, and adult family members
- Agricultural service providers, such as businesses, agencies, and organizations that support farms or the broader ag industry
Farmers will be asked to take part in 60–90 minute in‑person interviews at a location of their choosing, with an honorarium provided. Ag service providers will be invited to join focus groups in Brandon, Russell, or Carman, where they’ll discuss strengths, wellness strategies, and supports within the farm community. Refreshments will be provided.
The goal is to use these real‑world insights to help build an advocacy toolkit that can strengthen mental‑health supports across Manitoba’s agricultural sector. The project is supported in part by the Do More Agriculture Foundation and has received ethics approval through Brandon University.
Manitoba farmer and mental‑health advocate Bryce Fisher, who is also a research assistant on the project, says the study is an important opportunity for producers to shape the future of wellness supports in agriculture.
More information on how to participate is available through the Centre for Rural Mental Health’s website. Media inquiries can be directed to Alison Inglis with the Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program at 204‑290‑0410 or alinglis3@gmail.com.
