“Deep Rooted” reveals the hidden mental health struggles of Canadian farmers. The documentary screened in Saskatoon with a live panel on July 17.
Film Shines Spotlight on Mental Health Crisis in Farming
A powerful new documentary titled Deep Rooted is breaking the silence surrounding mental health in Canadian agriculture. The 33-minute film, which premiered Wednesday night at Saskatoon’s Broadway Theatre, brings real-life accounts of farmers grappling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts—conditions often intensified by rural isolation and stigma.
Personal Stories Take Centre Stage
Among those featured in the documentary is Kole Norman, a first-generation rancher from Saskatchewan and member of the Flying Dust First Nation. Speaking candidly, Norman recounts a period when he struggled with suicidal thoughts due to overwhelming pressures in his early years as a rancher.
“I just felt really helpless,” he shared. “I didn’t want to seem weak… and when I finally reached out, the help wasn’t immediate like I had hoped.”
Exploring the Pressures of Rural Life
The film underscores how unpredictable factors—such as weather, market prices, and livestock health—compound the stress faced by producers. Norman described the weight of daily responsibilities even on his worst mental health days: “Cows still need to get fed. All those lives rely on you.”
Community and Experts Join the Conversation
Following the screening, a panel discussion featured mental health experts and rural advocates, including Norman, Lesley Kelly (Saskatchewan farmer and co-founder of the Do More Agriculture Foundation), and Dr. Michelle Pavloff from SaskPolytech. They addressed questions from the audience and emphasized the need for continued dialogue and support.
Industry Faces Elevated Suicide Risk
Merle Massie, Executive Director of the Do More Agriculture Foundation, which partnered in producing the film, noted that suicide rates in the agricultural industry are 20–30% higher than the general population.
“This isn’t just a story of hope—it’s a story of truth,” Massie said. “Mental health is as important as physical health. Reaching out for support isn’t weakness—it’s survival.”
Breaking Stigma, Building Support
The screening, hosted by donation, aimed not only to raise awareness but to spark grassroots conversations in rural communities where mental health is often overlooked. Organizers hope the film will be shown across Canada in schools, town halls, and agricultural forums.
Norman, now in a better place, says sharing his story was about giving others the strength to seek help: “If even one person watches this and feels less alone, it’s worth it.”
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