“The reported prevalence of mental illness in rural and remote Australia appears similar to that of major cities. However, access to mental health services is substantially more limited than in major cities. Tragically, rates of self-harm and suicide increase with remoteness. (National Rural Health Alliance Inc)
When providing mental health support to a person living in a rural or remote location it is important to consider:
… there are a range of mental health services that can be accessed by people in rural areas on-line or over the phone, including information, counselling and programs.
- A person with lived experience of a mental health condition
When supporting someone in a rural or remote location, the most important thing is to see them as a person first, with their individual beliefs, culture and goals, while also understanding the context of their location.
Your support should include:
Each person in a rural or remote location will be different. It is important to avoid stereotyping such as “all country people are down to earth”. Listen, ask and clarify, and build trust by being respectful, reliable and honest.
Rural Adversity Mental Health ProgramThis web page provides information about this statewide program that links rural people to the help they need. The program is managed by the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, in partnership with each of the rural NSW Local Health Districts.Type: Web pageEstimated reading time: 5 minutesProduced by: University of Newcastle
Rural Mental HealthThis fact sheet provides an overview of rural mental health issues and ways to access help.Type: Fact SheetEstimated reading time: 5 minutesProduced by: Lifeline
Supporting yourself - rural and remote peopleThis website has links to resources and suggests ways to access support.Type: WebsiteEstimated reading time: 5 minutesProduced by: Head to Health
Mental health helplinesThis web page provides links to a range of mental health helplines.Type: Web pageEstimated reading time: 5 MinutesProduced by: Health Direct
Let’s talk mental health phone servicesThis fact sheet provides contact information for a range of services available over the phone.Type: Fact SheetLength: 2 pagesProduced by: Centre for Rural and Remote Health
Let’s talk where to find help for mental health concernsThis fact sheet lists tips for having a conversation with someone you are concerned about. It also suggests ways to find help for mental health concerns.Type: Fact SheetLength: 4 pagesProduced by: Centre for Rural and Remote Health