Family perspectives on pathways to mental health care for children and youth in rural communities

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Context: There is insuffi cient literature documenting the mental health experiences and needs of rural communities, and a lack of focus on children in particular. This is of concern given that up to 20 % of children and youth suffer from a diagnosable mental health problem. Purpose: This study examines issues of access to mental health care for children and youth in rural communities from the family perspective. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted in rural Ontario, Canada, with 30 parents of children aged 3-17 who had been diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders. Findings: Interview data indicate 3 overall thematic areas that describe the main barriers and facilitators to care. These include personal, systemic, and environmental factors. Family members are constantl