People living in rural and remote areas of Australia face particular challenges in accessing appropriate and timely support for their mental health and wellbeing. Availability of services is limited with far fewer mental health professionals and specialists per capita in rural and remote areas than in major cities. Healthcare workers servicing these areas can feel out of their depth in managing mental health issues when they lack access to appropriate training and supervision. Furthermore, accessing the services that do exist often involves travelling long distances, which can be costly and time consuming. Advances in technology and in the reach of broadband internet into rural areas has enabled greater access to specialists through telehealth, however limitations remain in the cost of these services and the availability of specialists able to provide services via this format.

Digital services and tools offer an alternative pathway to mental health support that overcome many of these barriers. They are free or low cost and can be accessed from anywhere and (for most) at any time, making them convenient and accessible. The anonymity they afford can remove the stigma and privacy concerns that can arise from seeking mental health support within small communities. They offer access to evidence-based psychological approaches where this may be lacking in rural settings due to limited access to trained professionals.

• Despite efforts to extend the reach of broadband internet into rural areas of Australia, access to reliable high-speed internet can still be patchy and inaccessible for many people. This can make use of digital tools and services challenging.
• Some people still feel uncomfortable with technology or lack sufficient digital literacy to engage with digital tools effectively.
• Many people living in rural and remote locations in Australia already feel isolated and desire engagement with a person when help seeking.

• Some services offer flexibility in how the service can be accessed. For example, MindSpot’s assessment and treatment services can be delivered online or over the phone.
• Many smartphone apps only require internet access for initial download, meaning they can be downloaded and installed when in an area with reliable internet access, then used offline as needed.
• Several digital services offer support or guidance from a therapist in varying forms including telephone, e-mail, video or instant messaging, providing human connection.
• Digital tools and services can also be used alongside treatment or support from other health professionals, giving the benefits and convenience of digital tools alongside the support and monitoring of a clinician.

Visit our resource library for more information and resources on the digital mental health tools available and how they can be used to support the mental health and wellbeing of rural Australians.

If you’d like more support in learning how to get started with digital mental health in your practice, contact our team here to enquire about training opportunities.