WHO WE ARE

Built for Alberta Farmers and Rural Communities

AgWell supports the mental health and well-being of farmers, their families and rural communities across Alberta.

We bring together farmers, educators, mental health professionals, and researchers to develop practical solutions that reflect the realities of agriculture.

Our work is grounded in lived experience and research, with a focus on creating supports that fit farm life and respect Alberta’s farm culture.

Our mission is to strengthen the mental health and well-being of Alberta farmers by turning research and lived experience into practical support that fits real farm life.

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 "home base" is in rural central Alberta at the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus, so we understand the realities of rural life.

  • We work alongside farmers, agricultural organizations, and industry partners to develop practical, real-world solutions together.

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

  • 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.

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

  • 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.