Hay Are We Okay? Podcast: Community Is Medicine

S2 - Episode 03: Community Is Medicine

by The Do More Agriculture Foundation | Hay Are We Okay? Podcast

For years, people in rural communities have known what time outdoors and work with animals can offer: purpose, connection, and a sense of belonging. In this episode, the Care Farming Network’s Kate Mudge explains how farms can make these experiences part of mental health care.

Merle then checks in with Deborah and David Cooper. The Toronto couple shares how their son Eli’s experience led them to create a supportive community for adults living with mental illness. "Eli’s Place" aims to bring together professional mental health, meaningful work, connection and belonging through a residential care farm model. . They recount the years of work involved in bringing this vision to life and their hope to make similar models available to families across Canada.

“Community is medicine,” said David Cooper. “We are hot wired to be together, not in isolation. ”

Across North America, “care farms” are offering new ways to support people experiencing mental health challenges, through connection, meaningful activities and community.. Hear why interest in creating and supporting these farms is growing, and what it might take to bring this approach to more communities.

Content note: This episode includes a personal story involving suicide loss. Please take care while listening. Support resources are available at domore.ag/crisis-contacts....






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Disclaimer:
The Do More Agriculture Foundation is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 or call 911. Check out crisis supports available across Canada.
You can also go to your nearest emergency department.