Suicidal ideation among Canadian farmers is nearly twice as high as in the general population.
Farming is more than a job, it’s a way of life. But the same pride and resilience that keep farms running can make it hard to ask for help when things start to fall apart.
In this episode, rural mental health therapist Chad Bouma joins host Buzz Bishop to talk about the emotional toll of isolation, burnout, and silence in farming communities and it’s impact on men’s health. As part of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, Chad supports farmers across the country offering insight into what stress looks like behind the scenes and how to recognize the signs before it’s too late.
Whether you’re on a tractor or know someone who is, this conversation reveals the hidden struggles many rural men face and what we can all do to help.
You’ll learn how to spot warning signs, why connection matters, our role with supporting mental health and where farmers can access free, confidential, 24/7 support.
National Farmer Crisis Line 1-866-FARMS01
Call anytime — 24/7, 365 days a year.
Follow Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing
- Website - https://ccaw.ca/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cdnagwellbeing/
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Canadian-Centre-For-Agricultural-Wellbeing/100087880784194/
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadian-centre-for-agricultural-wellbeing/
- X - https://x.com/CDNAgWellbeing
Follow Canadian Men’s Health Foundation
- Website - https://menshealthfoundation.ca/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/menshealthfdn/
- Facebook - https://facebook.com/menshealthfoundation
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Farmers' Mental Health
01:10 Meet Chad Boma: A Lifelong Connection to Farming
04:07 The Journey to the Canadian Center for Agricultural Wellbeing
06:33 Understanding Farmers' Mental Health Challenges
12:38 The Weight of Farming: Isolation and Responsibility
16:33 Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Issues
23:52 Support Systems and Resources for Farmers
31:49 You're Not Alone
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