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

Cremers, G. E., Cogan, N. A. and Twamley, I. (2014) Mental health and parenting in rural areas: an exploration of parental experiences and current needs. Journal of Mental Health, 23(2), pp. 99-104. (doi: 10.3109/09638237.2014.889283) (PMID:24588400)

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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.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Cogan, Dr Nicola
Authors: Cremers, G. E., Cogan, N. A., and Twamley, I.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Creativity Culture and Faith
Journal Name:Journal of Mental Health
Publisher:Informa Healthcare
ISSN:0963-8237
ISSN (Online):1360-0567

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