Did you know that people living in rural and remote areas of Australia face more daily challenges and stressors than living in the main cities? These include a greater prevalence of chronic conditions, disability, and generally poorer health. In some areas reporting 8 times the hospitalisation rate for mental health-related issues.
There are fewer employment opportunities leading to lower incomes, less financial security and increased financial stress. Along with greater exposure to natural disasters, including the current and escalating drought crisis affecting thousands of Australian farmers.
Rates of self-harm and suicide have been shown to increase with remoteness, suggesting that there are very significant mental health issues to be addressed in rural and remote areas.