Rural areas in Georgia have been disproportionately affected by mental health issues, with residents from these regions reaching out for help through a national mental health crisis hotline in large numbers. The data revealed by state mental health officials highlights the urgent need for mental health resources and support in rural communities.
Since the launch of the 988 crisis hotline in July 2022, a significant number of calls have originated from rural areas of Georgia. Particularly concerning is the high volume of calls from South Georgia counties, where mental health concerns are particularly pronounced. The rate of suicides in rural Georgia has surged by 66% over the last two decades, according to Ashley Fielding, an assistant commissioner with the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
Fielding attributed this high call volume to the combination of limited mental health resources in rural areas and the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. In rural communities, there is often limited access to outpatient services, leaving residents with few options for professional mental health support.
Additionally, many rural residents may be reluctant to reach out for help due to the stigma surrounding mental health issues. These factors result in many rural Georgians suffering in silence.
In response to the mental health crisis in rural areas, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities has allocated $6.2 million over the last two fiscal years to support mental health crisis mobile response teams. The current budget includes $10 million for a crisis center in Dublin and $7 million for a center in Augusta, aiming to provide essential mental health care to these regions.
Furthermore, the department is investing $2 million in a statewide listening tour to engage with farmers and faith leaders, gathering their insights and experiences on how mental health issues are impacting their communities. This comprehensive approach acknowledges the complex nature of mental health challenges in rural areas and emphasizes the need for increased support and resources.
The data indicates that mental health care disparities in rural Georgia are contributing to increased mental health issues and suicides in these communities. As a result, there is a growing call for comprehensive efforts to address these issues and ensure that rural residents have access to vital mental health care.
