Advocacy

While the prevalence of mental illness is similar between rural and urban residents, the services available can be very different. Mental healthcare needs are often not met in many rural communities across the country because adequate services are not present. Providing mental health services can be challenging in rural areas due to factors such as accessibility, availability, affordability, and even acceptability. These struggles also apply to behavioral health and substance-use disorders in rural communities. In conjunction with quality services, it is important to address social determinants, such as employment and housing stability, insurance status, proximity to services, culturally responsive care – all of which have an impact on behavioral health outcomes. We encourage you to utilize the following advocacy materials and external resources when you are advocating for rural behavioral health!