The chronicity of mental distress and mental illness in young people are alarming, and their habitual discretion makes timely intervention difficult.
With advancing concern, young people in rural areas are at an increased risk of adverse effects due to inaccessible resources and isolation.
What are the barriers to accessing mental healthcare in rural areas?
Geographical isolation
● A lack of social support such as group therapy, support groups, and social clubs for at-risk youths.
● Inaccessible resources due to elevated costs and geographical isolation.
What costs are elevated due to geographical isolation?
Prescription prices, travel expenses (many rural residents must travel to surrounding cities for proper or immediate care), and affordable care.
● Limited funding and resources allocated to healthcare facilities in rural areas
Rural areas have limited access to mental health facilities, delaying intervention. Most healthcare facilities are funded by the government, which financially favours areas with a larger population.
Digital divide
● Increased vulnerability and isolation
Social media has become more welcoming to the neurodivergent community. Young people in rural areas may be unable to access virtual communities because of limited cell service.
● Increased stigma
Smaller populations come with bigger social norms and expectations. A lack of diversity can put a young person at greater risk of feeling alone.
● Hindrance in telemedicine and prescription delivery services
Shortage of mental health professionals
Rural areas have fewer educational and employment opportunities compared to cities. This puts young people at risk for:
● Delayed intervention
● Limited or unobtainable options and resources
Beneficial options within the classroom: extended test times, school counsellors, and adapted education programs.
● Limited options for choosing a mental healthcare team
Not all therapists are one size fits all, and limited options can limit a patient’s ability to choose a mental health professional that they, or someone they know, doesn't know.
Privacy is often a concern to young people in rural areas. Without a guarantee of patient confidentiality, many young people avoid asking for help.
What is being done to change this?
Through our pilot project, Holistically Rural Outreach Youth Project, we are fighting to continue bridging the gap between mental healthcare and young people in rural communities. Young people urgently need access to the same resources found in larger communities, and with your help, progress is achievable.
Learn more about the Holistically Rural Outreach Youth Project we are running at Mind, Body, Brain and Rural Mental Health Matters.
Your support could help young people everywhere!
Resources:
written by
Wellbeing Writer
Comments