In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

Rural young people experience depression and anxiety at the same rates as their suburban and urban peers but are significantly less likely to use digital mental health resources that could provide support, according to new research from Hopelab, a nonprofit researcher, investor and convener dedicated to fostering greater mental health and well-being outcomes for Brown, Black, and Queer young people. The study, Rural Realities: Young People, Digital Technology, and Well-being, reveals that rural young people are less likely to use mental health apps and attend online therapy sessions, even when experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of depression or anxiety, a news release stated. Several factors contributed to lower digital mental health engagement among young rural people, including limited internet connectivity, stigma around mental health discussions, lack of parental support and concerns about privacy in small communities. Among the key findings: Rural young people use social media less frequently than their suburban/urban peers (75% vs. 85% daily use) but are more likely to prefer communicating through social media rather than in person (49% vs. 38%). Additionally, rural young people were significantly less likely to use apps for depression (13% vs. 19%), anxiety (15% vs. 21%), sleep (14% vs. 36%) and stress reduction (17% vs. 24%). The survey involved 1,274 young people aged 14–22 from October to November 2023.