Experiences of people referring to a rural school-based mental health support service for young people: A qualitative study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Healthcare provision across rural and remote areas is challenging, requiring adaptability and careful management of scarce resources. In Western New South Wales (NSW), Australia, youth mental health services have been identified as a priority. Schools are well-placed to address some of these barriers and facilitate access to mental health services. This study explores the experiences of people referring to an innovative rural school-based mental health support service in western NSW for young people aged 12-25 (‘The Service'), and their perceptions of the benefits and challenges of The Service. Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used to explore the experiences of people who had made referrals to The Service. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted, with data analysed deductively. Results: The participants described The Service’s model of care as the overarching feature which facilitated access to mental health care for young people. The model of care was described as easy to access, flexible, and offering quality service delivery. Suggestions for improvement included making The Service more inclusive for young people after they leave school and finding ways to address staffing challenges to ensure consistency of service delivery. Conclusions: Locating services in schools makes mental health support accessible and convenient for users. Participants reported high satisfaction with referring to The Service, and positive school-related outcomes for young people. This small study supports the expansion of school-based mental health services which could be rigorously evaluated.