A Systematic Review of the Lack of Mental Health Resources in Rural High Schools [paper]
Mental health is a relevant and sensitive subject in our world today. Adolescents are particularly apt to issues that arise when there is a lack of mental health treatment. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine how the lack of mental health resources affected rural high school adolescents compared to urban counterparts. Some problems that occur in adolescents who reside in rural areas due to the lack of mental health resources include substance and drug abuse, poor academic outcomes, and suicide. The literature review was conducted using four databases and quality appraisal tools. The data collected included randomized control studies, qualitative and quantitative studies, primary research articles, and cross-sectional studies. Six of the seven articles used were conducted in school settings. Participants in this study included 155,000 adolescents ages 14-18. Results yielded the common theme that the lack of mental health resources in rural areas produces negative outcomes for adolescents. Findings are discussed in the context of the importance for the increase of mental health resources and treatment for adolescents in rural areas.
mental health, mental health resources, rural areas, adolescents, high schools
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