Research summary
Research on mental health among people who live in rural and remote areas has tended to focus on what is lacking—such as specialized health services, health professionals, public transportation systems, education about mental health issues, and support for family caregivers. But people who live in rural areas can also tap into opportunities related to mental health care, such as family and friend networks.
As Canada Research Chair in Rural and Remote Mental Health, Dr. Rachel Herron’s goal is to better understand the vulnerability, resilience and sustainability of rural mental health care. She and her research team aim to contribute to the development of informed policy on mental health by amplifying the voices of rural people who live with mental health problems—and to build capacity to respond to both the challenges and opportunities in rural and remote mental health.