Survey shows rural people less likely to ask for help with mental health

"The Kiwi attitude of 'she'll be right' won't get us very far," says Bayer NZ managing director, Derek Bartlett. Photo / File

Seven out of 10 rural New Zealanders have felt more stress over the last five years, according to a survey.

The State of the Rural Nation Survey, conducted by Bayer New Zealand and Country TV, asked participants several questions regarding their views on critical topics impacting rural New Zealand today, including a series of questions around mental health.

Of those who responded that they had felt increased stress over the last five years, over half (54 per cent) attributed financial pressures as the main reason, while the impact of environmental factors (i.e. droughts, flooding, hail) on people's work and livelihoods came in at a close second (49 per cent).

The survey highlighted that our younger generation (aged 18 – 39) were the most affected by stress and anxiety.

A staggering 85 per cent of respondents in this age bracket indicated they had felt more personal stress in the last five years - significantly more than those 55 and above at 64 per cent. Interestingly, they also felt mental health issues were more prevalent in rural areas of New Zealand.

Bayer New Zealand managing director, Derek Bartlett said the survey results highlighted issues around mental health that need to be addressed.

Listen to Derek Bartlett speak to Jamie Mackay about the survey below:

The survey showed that those living rurally were significantly less likely than urban dwellers to consider talking to a health professional if they experienced signs of stress or anxiety.

"More than half of respondents found it difficult to talk about mental health issues. What's more, 56 per cent claimed they'd rather deal with things themselves, while just under half responded that the stigma associated with mental health was the reason for their discomfort in talking about it.

"This is really concerning. Although we've made progress in trying to move away from that stigma, it's still widely misunderstood as a weakness, especially for those living rurally. The Kiwi attitude of 'she'll be right' won't get us very far if people are neglecting the signs that they need help."

Image / Supplied

Dr Lance O'Sullivan, medical innovator and former New Zealander of the Year, said he wasn't surprised by the results, having lived and worked in rural New Zealand for much of his life.

"Rural communities are often geographically isolated, which invariably means limited access to mental health resources. It's no secret New Zealand is in the midst of a mental health epidemic and this is a reminder that the effects of this are widespread.

"The shortage of mental health professionals across the board, makes for no quick fix, however, mental health resources are increasingly being accessed remotely via online platforms or mobile applications. If people are experiencing negative emotions or feeling isolated, they should always reach out to a trusted party – whether that be someone they know or a health professional. People should know they're not alone."

Where to get help:

Rural Support Trust: 0800 787 254
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633
Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.