Blue Ridge Blues: The Problems and Strengths of Rural Women

Abstract

Rural women have many problems in common with urban women, including poverty, superwoman expectations, and domestic violence. However, geographic and social isolation make these problems even more devastating to rural women. What often results is endemic stress that is manifested in chronic low self-esteem. This article discusses mental health services to rural women with particular emphasis on the cultural components of chronic stress and low self-esteem. A ttention is also given to building support systems, networking with the larger community, and identifying the needs of agency staff members.