This bloke who helps me with my tractor, he’s been the best psychologist: The experience of seeking mental health support in rural Australia
Article
Article Title | This bloke who helps me with my tractor, he’s been the best psychologist: The experience of seeking mental health support in rural Australia |
---|---|
ERA Journal ID | 44529 |
Article Category | Article |
Authors | Mutsvairo, Brenda, Terry, Daniel and Peck, Blake |
Journal Title | American Journal of Men's Health |
Number of Pages | 11 |
Year | 2024 |
Publisher | SAGE Publications Ltd |
Place of Publication | United States |
ISSN | 1557-9883 |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1177/15579883241249103 |
Web Address (URL) | https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15579883241249103 |
Abstract | Mental illness is difficult to discuss among men due to notions of remaining tough, being a man, and societal expectations. In rural communities this is particularly evident which is further exacerbated by poor health care access. The aim of this study is to understand the lived experiences of men and their significant others when seeking mental health support in rural areas. A qualitative study was conducted using purposeful sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews in rural or regional areas of Australia. Open-ended questions were asked but more questions were developed from the responses given. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. Four key themes emerged. These encompassed triggers and help-seeking caused by stressors such as work, family, and poor physical health, with support seeking from professional or informal supports. The second theme included challenges securing professional support appointments, while the third was centered on access to medication and travel time. Finally, the final theme encompassed relationships being impacted by poor mental health or created insights into the need to seek help. The experiences explored throughout this study highlight that as men are impacted, so too are married or romantic partners and children; however, they are the catalyst for help-seeking. The study further highlights even when men are psychologically prepared to seek help, it may be difficult to do so. Improving access goes beyond mere medical professionals in rural areas and must focus on supporting families and loved ones to support men. |
Keywords | health care utilization, health care issues, mental health, psychosocial and cultural issues, qualitative research, research |
Article Publishing Charge (APC) Amount Paid | 3600.0 |
Article Publishing Charge (APC) Funding | Other |
Contains Sensitive Content | Does not contain sensitive content |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 420504. Mental health nursing |
420321. Rural and remote health services | |
420321. Rural and remote health services | |
Byline Affiliations | School of Nursing and Midwifery |
Centre for Health Research | |
Federation University |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/z6579/this-bloke-who-helps-me-with-my-tractor-he-s-been-the-best-psychologist-the-experience-of-seeking-mental-health-support-in-rural-australia
56
total views1
total downloads4
views this month0
downloads this month