BeFarmWell: Supporting Farmer Mental Health Through Technology with Lauren Van Ewyk

Mental health remains one of the most important conversations in agriculture today. Farmers face unique pressures, including financial uncertainty, weather challenges, isolation, long hours, and the ongoing demands of running a farm business. While awareness around farmer mental health continues to grow, many producers still struggle to find accessible, agriculture-specific support when they need it most. In this episode of The Impact Farming Show, Tracy sits down with Lauren Van Ewyk, CEO of the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, to discuss BeFarmWell, a new mental health and wellness app created specifically for Canadian farmers and farm families. Lauren shares the inspiration behind the app, the current state of farmer mental health, and how BeFarmWell is designed to help farmers build resilience, improve well-being, and access practical support before stress reaches a crisis point. Whether you're a farmer, rancher, spouse, family member, or someone who supports agriculture, this conversation highlights the importance of prioritizing mental wellness and explores new tools available to help Canada's agricultural community thrive. Episode Highlights ✔ Lauren's journey and work with the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance ✔ The current state of farmer mental health in Canada ✔ Common stressors and challenges affecting producers today ✔ The inspiration behind creating the BeFarmWell app ✔ What farmers will find inside the app ✔ Key features, resources, and wellness tools available through BeFarmWell ✔ How technology can improve access to mental health support ✔ The importance of proactive mental health care in agriculture ✔ Lauren's vision for the future of farmer mental health in Canada ✔ Encouragement and practical advice for farmers who may be struggling Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and introduction 01:00 Meet Lauren Van Ewyk and the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance 07:17 What farmers are experiencing when it comes to mental health and wellness today 14:01 Introducing BeFarmWell: What it is and why it was created 16:08 What was the inspiration behind launching the app 19:33 Inside the app: Features, resources, and support tools 24:24 – Tracy shares a story about Navy Seals and their "don't quit at night rule." 28:03 Where to learn more and download BeFarmWell If today's conversation resonated with you, please consider sharing this episode with a friend, family member, neighbour, or fellow farmer. Mental health challenges often happen in silence, and sometimes a simple conversation or shared resource can make a meaningful difference. If you're looking for practical tools and support, be sure to explore the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, listen to the Rural Well Podcast, and download the BeFarmWell app. These resources were created with farmers and farm families in mind and can help you take proactive steps toward better mental wellness. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your crops, livestock, equipment, and business. Strong farms start with healthy people. Be sure to subscribe to The Impact Farming Show so you never miss an episode. We bring you the people and ideas that will IMPACT your farming operation through conversations on farm business, transition planning, leadership, and mental wellness. Until next time, keep learning, keep growing, and keep investing in yourself. #FarmerMentalHealth #MentalHealthInAgriculture #MentalWellness #FarmFamily #CanadianAgriculture #Agriculture #FarmLife #FarmStress #RuralMentalHealth #ImpactFarming #BeFarmWell #AgMentalHealth #FarmingCommunity #FarmResilience #FarmWellness Thanks for tuning in, Tracy