Published: April 2024
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.
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 favors areas with a larger population.
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
With smaller populations come 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
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 counselors, 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.
Through Mind, Body, Brain's 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 Rural Mental Health Matters and Mind, Body, Brain.
Your support could help young people everywhere!
Mentionable resources:
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This blog was written by Laura-Ray Read, Neurodivergent writer and so much more.
If you're looking to share your personal lived experience with us or your expertise on mental health, physical health, accessibility, and inclusion, please contact [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you.