Identifying the Mental Health Research Priorities in Rural Settings, With Implications for Coastal Communities: A Rapid Evidence Synthesis

Abstract

Introduction

There appears to be a spatial mismatch in rural communities between demand for and uptake of mental health services. There is currently no existing evidence synthesis of mental health research priorities pertaining explicitly to rural and coastal contexts.

Objective

The rapid review aimed to identify and map existing international evidence on rural and coastal mental health research priorities.

Design

A rapid systematic review was conducted, consistent with guidelines from the Cochrane Rapid Review Methods Group and PRISMA. Keywords and subject headings were searched in PubMed and PsycINFO. Supplementary searching was performed in Google Scholar. Data were extracted using an adapted version of the REPRISE framework. Content analysis was conducted to establish priorities.

Findings

1285 studies were screened and 20 publications included (Australia n = 8, USA n = 9, UK n = 2, no geographic focus n = 1). The content analysis grouped the priorities into seven categories: (1) interventions; (2) space and place; (3) stakeholder engagement; (4) improving understanding; (5) standardising data and terminology; (6) outreach; and (7) collaboration. Within these categories, there were 16 priorities and 53 sub-priorities. No evidence focused on mental health research priorities in coastal contexts.

Discussion

Future rural mental health research requires stronger collaboration between relevant stakeholders to reflect local needs. Participatory research is key to achieving that. There was no mental health research priority setting exercise that accounted for the coastal context, highlighting a notable gap.

Conclusion

The findings can inform how rural and coastal mental health research proceeds at a local, national, and international level.