Our Mission

We aim to support the mental health and well-being of Alberta farmers and build resilience in the rural communities they contribute to and rely on.

Our Story

In 2021, after a study revealed that Canadian farmers face higher levels of depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress compared to the general population, Dr. Rebecca and a community organization partnered to explore the mental health challenges of Alberta farmers.

With no prior research on the specific needs of Alberta farmers, Dr. Rebecca and her team surveyed and interviewed hundreds of farmers across the province. They also interviewed dozens of rural mental health providers to understand the strategies they used to engage farmers and support their well-being.

These conversations revealed that while Alberta farmers share many of the same mental health challenges as their counterparts across Canada, the unique ways of life and practices in Alberta require a tailored approach.

To continue our research and work, we are now a program within the Alberta Centre for Sustainable Rural Communities (ACSRC), which is at the UofA's Augustana Campus in Camrose.

Our Values

Our values guide everything we do, ensuring our work remains grounded in rural realities, driven by collaboration, and focused on creating meaningful, lasting support for farmers and their communities.

Being Rurally Located

We are located in rural central Alberta at the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus, so we understand firsthand the realities of rural life.

Using a Collaborative Approach

We work alongside farmers, organizations, and industry experts and leverage the skill sets of researchers from various disciplines.

Research That Drives Action

We don’t do research for research’s sake —our work is meant to make a difference by leading to practical, relevant resources that benefit farmers and rural communities.

Respecting the Whole Farm Community

A farmer doesn't stand alone -- they are part of families, communities, and the agricultural industry. Our work considers all of these connections to create lasting support.

Investing in Future Generations

We mentor students and engage community partners to ensure the future of agriculture is supported by well-equipped leaders.

Using a Strength-Based Approach

We see the strength in people, not their deficits, and build upon the resourcefulness, adaptability, and deep connections that make rural life strong.

Why We Do It

We are committed to strengthening the mental health and well-being of farmers and the rural communities that depend on them, focusing on the current generation and preparing the next generation.

Enhance Farmer Well-Being – We address the unique stressors farmers face by providing resources, support, and evidence-based strategies to help them build resilience and sustain their livelihoods.

Build Resilient Rural Communities – By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, we equip rural communities with the tools to support farmers and grow together.

Advance Knowledge & Awareness – We translate research into action from scientific reports and conference presentations to creative storytelling, videos, and documentaries—ensuring that our findings reach those who need them most.

Train Future Leaders – We mentor and equip the next generation of researchers, practitioners, and community leaders with the skills to continue this essential work and drive lasting change.