BRIDGING THE GAP: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF BARRIERS AND STRATEGIES IN MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE DELIVERY FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES

Abstract

Background: Mental health is an important component of overall well-being, yet access to mental health services is still very limited in rural and remote areas compared to urban areas. This article aims to explore the key challenges in accessing mental health services in rural areas and provide evidence-based recommendations to address them, Methods: This research used a systematic literature review method with a qualitative approach. Primary data was obtained from scientific articles published between 2016 and 2024 in databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Articles were selected using PRISMA, a total of 15 articles were analyzed in the systematic review, Results: Results show that the main challenges in accessing mental health services in rural areas include: (1) Geographic Isolation and Infrastructure Deficits, (2) Socioeconomic Barriers and Financial Constraints, (3) Stigma and Cultural Misconceptions, (4) Lack of Integrated Care Systems (5) Potential Role of Local Culture and Resilience, Conclusions: Improving access to mental health services in rural areas requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses both supply- and demand-side barriers. This includes strengthening human resources, leveraging technology, reducing stigma, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and incorporating local cultural strengths into care models. Without systematic and sustainable interventions, disparities in mental health services will continue to widen, threatening the goal of equitable and inclusive health development.