Have you ever stopped to consider the emotional toll on those who are committed to the unique lifestyle of farming and the agriculture industry?

In this episode we are digging deep into the roots of mental health challenges in the field of agriculture and the families impacted by this lifestyle. Our guest, Lewellyn Melnyk, plants seeds of insight as she shares her journey from journalism to cultivating resilience as a farmer. As the author of "Rooted: How I stay small town strong when life gets hard," Lewellyn bravely reveals her walk with depression and the risk factors common to those in the farming community.

We uncover alarming statistics from the Mental Health Commission of Canada, revealing the fertile ground for depression, anxiety, and even suicide among farmers. Lewellyn uncovers several factors contributing to these challenges while sowing seeds of hope and resilience.

Join us for a harvest of wisdom as we cultivate a deeper understanding of mental health in agriculture that will ring true for many. Adversity is universal, and yet we can grow a greater understanding of the strength and challenges in this vital but often overlooked industry.

Website: www.lewellynmelnyk.com

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Janet Applefield, whose journey through adversity began during the invasion of Poland in 1939. Separated from her parents at the age of 7 during the upheaval of the Holocaust, Janet endured years of uncertainty and danger, learning the necessity of silence to protect her cultural identity.

Generously giving us a glimpse into her memoir, "Becoming Janet: Finding Myself in the Holocaust” and no longer content to remain silent, you will learn of the lifelong journey back to herself, and the resilience practices she came to rely on. Her journey is a testament to the power of having a voice, honouring your family heritage, and standing up for what you believe in.

Now residing in Massachusetts, Janet reflects on her career as a clinical social worker, emphasizing the importance of learning from one another despite our cultural differences. Join us for this inspiring conversation as we delve into Janet Applefield's tale of perseverance, strength, and enduring human spirit.

Website: http://www.janetapplefield.com/

Ever since she was two years old, Debra Atlas felt like she was living behind a mask.

It wasn’t until later in life that she was treated for depression – a diagnosis that has brought her tremendous insight, empathy, and strength.

As an environmental journalist, author, professional speaker, blogger and workshop leader, Debra is widely celebrated as a thought leader, driven by her desire to inspire and empower her readers and clients.

An expert communicator, she was also a radio personality with a weekly feature that ran for almost two years.

You can get your hands (or ears) on her inspiring book and audiobook, You Aren’t Depression’s Victim, which chronicles Debra’s life-long journey with depression. Every page offers life-changing perspectives and practical strategies to motivate people to find ways to take back their lives.

Learn more here: https://debraatlas.com/