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Wisdom from the drought: recommendations from a consultative conference.
Gina Sartore1, Bryan Hoolahan, Anne Tonna
1Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, University of Newcastle c/- Bloomfield Hospital, Forest Road, Orange, New South Wales 2800, Australia. gina.sartore@mwahs.nsw.gov.au
The Australian Journal of Rural Health
|September 21, 2005
Summary
Drought significantly impacts rural mental health. Effective strategies involve community support, inter-agency collaboration, and sustained mental health service planning for drought resilience.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Rural Mental Health
- Disaster Mental Health
Background:
- Drought poses a recurring and significant challenge to rural and remote Australian communities.
- The mental health impacts of drought require a coordinated and strategic response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the collective experiences of agencies addressing drought's mental health effects.
- To inform the development of a mental health strategy for future drought events.
Main Methods:
- A consultative conference was held with professionals from relevant government and non-government agencies.
- Qualitative data were gathered using the Nominal Group Technique.
- Participants included representatives from health, agriculture, and community services.
Main Results:
- Community building and education on drought impacts (physical, financial, mental) are crucial.
- Inter-agency cooperation and coordinated service delivery enhance support.
- Continuity and proactive planning for mental health services are essential.
Conclusions:
- Drought severely affects community mental health.
- A planned, multi-agency approach is vital for addressing mental health needs beyond the drought period.
- Building community capacity is key to managing common mental health challenges during and after drought.