Handley, T.E., Kay-Lambkin, F.J., Inder, K.J., Attia, J.R., Lewin, T.J., & Kelly, B.J. (2014). Feasibility of internet-delivered mental health treatments for rural populations. Clinical Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 49(2), 275-282. doi: 10.1007/s00127-013-0708-9. PMID: 23689825.
In rural areas, many barriers prevent individuals from receiving mental health treatment. Although internet-delivered mental health treatment is beneficial, it’s unclear whether internet-delivered mental health treatment is feasible for rural populations. To examine this question, this study surveyed Australian residents living in rural areas. All participants were asked about their ability to access the internet, their interest in internet-delivered mental health treatment, and their mental health during the past year. Results showed that two-thirds of participants had internet access. Participants in the most remote areas were least likely to have access to the internet. Across the whole sample, 20% of participants stated that they would consider using internet-delivered mental health treatment. Participants who had experienced mental health problems were more interested in these programs than participants with no recent mental health symptoms. Overall, 18% of participants had both internet access and a willingness to try an internet-delivered mental health program. This percentage was significantly higher in patients who had sought mental health treatment in the past year. Results of this study show that while the general rural population may still have reservations about internet-delivered mental health treatment, these programs may be a feasible option for rural residents with current mental health problems.