Taking a Strengths-Based Approach to Mental Health in Rural Communities: What Is the Evidence for Harnessing Strengths?

Abstract

<h4>Objective</h4>This study aimed to determine if rural community strengths identified in the literature have been causally linked to improved mental health and whether these strengths have been harnessed in interventions.<h4>Methods</h4>A secondary analysis of a systematic review of literature from Australia, Canada and the USA identified 28 studies that proposed a conceptual relationship to improved mental health. Studies were categorised, their distribution across a socioecological framework was assessed, and evidence of causality was evaluated.<h4>Results</h4>Among 28 studies, 24 were analytical and focused mainly on community strengths, with four interventional studies that addressed both personnel and community strengths. None established a causal relationship, including those that harnessed strengths in interventions.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Although rural strengths have been associated with improved mental health, evidence on causality, effectiveness and mechanisms for harnessing remains limited. Strengthening the evidence base is critical to justify incorporating rural strengths into mental health commissioning.