(file photo/farmnewsNOW Staff)

By Angie Rolheiser

Farm stress

Spring drought led to call increase to farm stress line

Aug 7, 2019 | 12:00 PM

Calls to the Saskatchewan farm stress line saw an increase in the spring.

Those calls are believed to have been due to the drought.

According to Mobile Crisis Services Executive Director John McFadyen, there were 255 calls from April through June.

“The bump in calls was in May when there was no rain and it was so dry, and you could even see that in calls up into June where farmers were calling in because it was still so dry,” McFadyen said.

McFadyen said this year could still end up being on par with last year but the numbers are definitely up in the first quarter compared to last year’s.

MLAs clash over foreign ownership of Saskatchewan farmland

Nov 10, 2025

Outstanding community members

'We all loved him': respected Prince Albert broadcaster passes away

Oct 09, 2025

Nearing the end of harvest

Meals in the field and hats in combines: a look into end of harvest traditions

Oct 09, 2025

Other key issues for farmers this year is financial, succession planning, decisions around crops and livestock, and mental health including anxiety and stress.

Addictions is also an issue for some farmers as well as domestic violence issues resulting from different farm tensions.

McFadyen said it is important to talk with someone about any or all of farm-related stresses.

“Reach out to support systems,” McFadyen said. “Talking about some of the things that are stressing you and look for solutions around those things.”

The toll-free farm stress line is open round the clock and the number is 1-800-667-4442.

–

angie.rolheiser@jobg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser