One of the significant challenges faced by rural women in Australia is limited access to health care services[1]. Rural areas often have fewer healthcare providers and facilities, making it challenging for women to access essential healthcare services, including mental health care[2]. This lack of access can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, resulting in worsened mental health outcomes. Additionally, rural women may face long travel times and associated costs to access health care services, further exacerbating the issue[3]. The limited access to health care services is a significant challenge faced by rural women in Australia, and it can have a significant impact on their mental health.
Social isolation and loneliness are also significant challenges faced by rural women in Australia[4]. Rural areas may have smaller populations and fewer social opportunities, leading to feelings of social isolation and loneliness[5]. Research has shown that social isolation and loneliness can have a detrimental impact on both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders[6]. The lack of social support and connection can also make it challenging for rural women to seek help and support for mental health issues, further exacerbating the problem[7]. Social isolation and loneliness are significant challenges that need to be addressed to improve the mental health outcomes of rural women in Australia.
Economic insecurity and stress are also significant challenges faced by rural women in Australia[8]. Rural areas may have limited job opportunities, lower wages, and higher levels of poverty, leading to economic insecurity and stress[9]. Research has shown that economic insecurity can have a significant impact on mental health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders[10]. Rural women may also face additional stressors related to their role in the family and community, such as caring for children, elderly relatives, and managing household responsibilities[11]. These stressors can further exacerbate the mental health challenges faced by rural women in Australia. Addressing economic insecurity and stress is crucial to improving the mental health outcomes of rural women in Australia.
So, What are we doing about it? Well here at Equine Magic we are developing digital resources to reach women wherever they may be. We are about to launch a discreet digital service for women in rural and remote Aus, which we will aim for a National Rollout in 2024.
In addition, we will be hosting women's mental health webinars, workshops and online consults. Get in touch if you would like to be a part of this project. All participant's information will be kept confidential and private.
References
1. Australian rural women's access to health services. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16448318/
2. Accessibility and quality of mental health services in rural .... (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.aph.gov.au
3. Making rural women's health and wellbeing a priority. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.ruralhealth.org.au
4. Social isolation and loneliness. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.aihw.gov.au
5. Social isolation and loneliness. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.aihw.gov.au
6. Social isolation, social support and loneliness as .... (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34219569/
7. new mums in rural Australia lack mental health services. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.theguardian.com
8. Australian women suffering high levels of mental distress .... (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.monash.edu
9. Economic inequality can deteriorate women's mental health. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.powertopersuade.org.au
10. The effect of economic insecurity on mental health. (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.sciencedirect.com
11. Brutal neglect: Australian rural women's access to health .... (n.d.) Retrieved November 11, 2023, from www.rrh.org.au/journal/article/475
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