Saskatoon company developing app to help farmers monitor mental health

A new mobile app is being developed to help farmers monitor the state of their mental health.

In a media release Thursday, Innovation Saskatchewan and the Ministry of Agriculture announced they’re partnering with Saskatoon-based Bridges Health on the project.

The mobile app was selected during a province-wide Innovation Challenge in the spring, when technology entrepreneurs were asked to develop a tool to help farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers monitor their mental health.

“Despite progress made, there is still stigma associated with asking for support when it comes to mental health,” Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan Tina Beaudry-Mellor said in the release.

“Having access to an app in the privacy of one’s own home will enhance the likelihood of people asking for help when they need it the most.”

According to the government, calls to the farm stress line in 2018-19 doubled when compared to the previous year. This year, COVID-19 has put new pressures on farmers and ranchers.

The app, which is called Avail, analyzes data supplied by the user and suggests supports such as articles, videos and online tips, or immediate assistance from a personal support network.

“Saskatchewan producers face unique challenges when it comes to dealing with mental health and we are committed to providing resources and strategies to help support them,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said in the release.

“We know there is a need for solutions like this and I’m looking forward to working with Bridges Health to provide a resource custom-built for the agriculture industry.”

By winning the challenge, Bridges Health will receive $10,000 in funding and a 16-week collaboration with government to develop the app.