In this powerful and timely conversation, Tracy speaks with Lauren Van Ewyk, a registered social worker, therapist, sheep farmer, foster mom, and dedicated agricultural mental-health advocate. Lauren brings both personal and professional insight into the challenges farmers face and the critically needed support systems being built today.

From stress and financial uncertainty to rural isolation and family dynamics, this episode unpacks what is too often kept quiet in agriculture — and shines a light on real solutions and hope.

🧠 What You'll Learn in This Episode • How Lauren's farm upbringing and social work background drive her mission • The story behind the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance • Services, tools, and resources available to farmers right now • How farmers can access therapy: cost, confidentiality, and convenience • The purpose and impact of the Rural Well Podcast • What "agriculture-informed therapy" means and why it's essential • Myths and misconceptions about mental health in agriculture • How financial stress affects farmer well-being • The effects of rural isolation and how to reduce disconnection • Signs and red flags that signal professional support may help • Insights and surprises Lauren has discovered through her work • Why she's optimistic about the future of mental health in agriculture • A vision for better support systems industry-wide • How to connect with NFMHA and access help

Episode Highlights ✔ Honest talk about invisible pressures on farmers ✔ Strategies to build resilience and support networks ✔ A hopeful look at progress across rural communities ✔ A reminder that strong people still need support

Farmer mental health is not a luxury — it's foundational to our food system, our rural economy, and our families. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. There is help. There is hope. And conversations like this one are how change begins.

Thanks for tuning in friends,

Tracy

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SHOW RESOURCES

- National Farmer Mental Health Alliance https://nfmha.ca - Rural Well Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-rural-well/id1763638851

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🔎 Related Phrases:

Mental Health, Lauren Van Ewyk, National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, Tracy Brunet, Impact Farming Show, Agriculture, Farming, Farmer, Farmlife, Agribusiness, Farm Business, Farm Finance, Farm Management, Sustainable Farming, Farming Tips, Farm Business Management, Farming Success, Farm Funding Solutions, Agricultural Finance, Farming Innovations, Farm Financial Solutions, Farm Founders, Farm Successors, Agribusiness

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