(Rural Roots Canada) – The Do More Agriculture Foundation’s AgTalk – Canada’s online space for mental health connection in the agriculture sector – has been renewed thanks to support from BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada, the RBC Foundation, and the McCain Foundation.
AgTalk is a specialized agricultural community within the online mental health site Togetherall. Executive Director Merle Massie says the platform provides a safe, anonymous space for those in agriculture to connect with peers who understand the pressures of farming and maintaining mental well-being.
“It’s 100% anonymous. No one on there knows your name or who you are, where you’re from. And what we’ve done is that we’ve created a subset within Together All that we call AG Talk, and it’s specifically for those of us who are connected with agriculture,” said Massie.
She believes it is like a coffee row for farmers with the larger community. There is also professional help on the platform.
“Within that space, there are 24/7 clinicians. And so there’s always someone there to talk to. There’s always someone there that you can have a conversation with, and they’re there to help should you need it.”
READ MORE: Do More Ag Tackles Mental Health Challenges in Agriculture
Since its launch in 2023, AgTalk has recorded more than 10,000 interactions. The service has reached people across Canada, with users ranging in age, gender, and background. According to Do More Ag, more than 60 per cent of users are not accessing any other formal mental health support, and one in three have considered suicide. Over 10 per cent have attempted to end their lives. Stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, and relationship issues are the top challenges raised on the platform.
“The renewal of AgTalk marks a powerful step forward in creating accessible mental health supports in agriculture,” said Sartaj Sarkaria, Chair of The Do More Agriculture Foundation. “We know that mental health can be hard to talk about, especially in rural and agricultural communities. That’s why we’re committed to supporting AgTalk—because connection saves lives.”
Industry partners emphasized the importance of continuing to invest in mental health resources for farmers.
“At RBC, we recognize that the well-being of our agricultural producers is just as important as the work they do to feed our country,” said Lorna McKercher, National Director Agriculture, RBC. “Mental health challenges can be isolating, especially in rural and remote areas where farmers and producers may not have access to in-person services. That’s why RBC Foundation is proud to support AgTalk.”
Leta LaRush, Vice President of BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada, says platforms like AgTalk matter because many people working in agriculture often face long hours, unpredictable conditions and high stakes as part of their daily life alone.
“The initiative is reshaping how the industry approaches mental health,” said LaRush, adding that AgTalk is helping reshape how mental health is approached in our industry by creating space for real connection, shared experiences and peer-to-peer support for farmers and people working in agriculture.
“It’s inspiring to see this shift happening and to be a part of a future where everyone knows that support is always within reach.”
Ann Evans, Chairperson of The McCain Foundation, echoed those sentiments. “We recognize that mental health is a serious concern in this sector and more support is needed. AgTalk is an innovative and impactful resource for farmers and agricultural workers across Canada. The McCain Foundation is proud to provide continuing support.”
For more information about AgTalk and The Do More Agriculture Foundation, please visit domore.ag/agtalk.
