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Research Article

Mental health and parenting in rural areas: an exploration of parental experiences and current needs

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Pages 99-104 | Received 26 Mar 2013, Accepted 06 Jan 2014, Published online: 03 Mar 2014
 

Abstract

Background: Research on parental mental health problems (MHPs) has predominantly used urban samples and focused on the risks for children.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore rural parents’ lived experiences of parenting with a MHP.

Method: Six semi-structured interviews were conducted with mothers who were using a mental health service in rural Ireland. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was employed.

Results: Themes identified were: “Being Observed and Negatively Judged by Others”; “Overshadowed by the Duality of Parenting and MHPs”; “Dominance of Medication Over Other Treatment Options”; “Uncertainty (of Impact on Parenting Ability and Children)” and “Need for Inclusion”. Although parents’ experienced a variety of concerns generic to parenting and mental health, living in a small, rural community was related to pronounced concerns regarding the stigma, devaluation and uncertainty associated with MHPs and service use.

Conclusion: Further investigation into and consideration for the specific needs and experiences of parent service-users could benefit both parents and their families and inform service development.

Notes

*This research was conducted in collaboration with The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, U.K. and West Cork Mental Health Service, HSE South, Co. Cork, Ireland

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