Producers, we need to talk about your mental health.
The current pricing situation has a lot of people down. No matter the time of year or context surrounding industry issues, it’s important not to neglect your emotional well-being.
During these tough times, remember that you are not alone. Through thick and thin, many of your fellow producers are in the same predicament, and there’s always someone you can turn to.
If you happen to find yourself caught between a rock and a hard place, facing an immediate crisis, never hesitate to get in touch with any of these outlets:
- Emergency Services: 911
- Ask to speak with a hospital psychiatrist on-call
- Alberta Mental Health Hotline: 1-877-303-2642
- Crisis Services Canada Suicide Prevention: 1-833-456-4566
If your situation is less urgent, consider having on hand some other pieces of information:
- The Do More Agriculture Foundation
- Bell Let’s Talk toolkit
- LifeLine Canada suicide prevention app
- Centre for Suicide Prevention FAQs
If you are looking for money-management strategies, check out Money Mentors. For support in dealing with addictions issues, try Alberta Health Services’ Addiction Helpline. If you are looking for longer-term consultation and treatment, consider finding a private psychologist through the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta.
As part of the Alberta Pork 2018 Labour Project, an HR toolkit is being developed in partnership with the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council (CAHRC). The toolkit will cover a number of topics, in addition to mental health resources for you and your employees.
Stay tuned for more on the toolkit and contact Charlotte Shipp (780-491-3528) for more information.