‘They just don’t care’: The experiences of mental health consumers in a Queensland bush community

Abstract

This paper examines the experiences of mental health consumers in a rural community. It is the result of research undertaken in ‘Ruraltown,’ a Queensland rural community, to determine the influence of bush identity on attitudes to mental health. During the course of this research, the negative plight of mental health consumers in the community became apparent. Through questionnaires and interviews with consumers, it was discovered that they felt discriminated against, alienated, disempowered, unsupported and alone. Although consumer input has been acknowledged as essential to mental health reform in recent years, this paper argues that there is still a long way to go. Issues identified by Ruraltown consumers include the negative perception of mental health issues, barriers that they encounter, stigma, and service provision problems. Lack of understanding and support from the community was also raised by consumers as compounding their isolation. The paper concludes with recommendations to enhance the situation for mental health consumers, not only in Ruraltown but in all rural communities. These include increased consumer involvement in mental health awareness, promotion and educational activities, improved service provision and, most importantly, ways to empower and encourage mental health consumers to become valued community members.