of farmers meet the classifications for DEPRESSION
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The Guardian Network is a volunteer suicide prevention network which supports Ontario’s farming community.
A Guardian is an individual, over the age of 18, who is likely to be in contact with farmers through their work, volunteer activities, or their place in their community and has successfully completed The Guardian Network training program.
Guardians are equipped with strategies and tools to identify the signs of mental distress, react to farmers at-risk, and connect individuals with appropriate mental health and crisis resources.
35%
45%
of farmers report HIGH STRESS
58%
of farmers meet the classifications for ANXIETY
68%
of farmers are more susceptible than the general population to CHRONIC STRESS, which can lead to PHYSICAL and MENTAL ILLNESS

What is a Guardian?
Primarily, a Guardian is an observer of change in individuals which may indicate a developing mental health issue. A Guardian is a caring individual who has successfully completed The Guardian Network training program in order provide acute support to producers who are presenting at-risk for suicide.

Who Can Be a Guardian?
Guardians are individuals in regular contact with farmers through their work, volunteer activities or their place in their community. This may include individuals who work directly with farm owners/operators like veterinarians, breeders, livestock dealers, seed or feed salespeople, financial advisors, accountants, milk truck drivers, field service representatives or other community members. It also includes farmers and farm workers themselves who are in regular contact with other members of the farming community.