Community Participation of Individuals with Mental Illnesses in Rural Areas: Stakeholder Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators.

Community inclusion and participation are social determinants of physical and mental health. This study examines activity preferences, barriers to engagement, and potential strategies for facilitating community participation for individuals with serious mental illness living in rural communities. Data for this qualitative study were collected in a series of focus groups with a stakeholders in rural Pennsylvania. Written responses to questions on activities, barriers, facilitators, and solutions were analyzed by members of the research team. The activities that are important to our participants included both those readily accessible in rural areas and those only accessible in more urban areas. Many of the barriers identified aligned with prior research (e.g., poverty, community mobility issues). A number of novel and feasible solutions to overcome barriers were provided at the policy, program, and practice levels, some of which that can be implemented immediately, to increase participation, and improve overall health of people with mental illnesses.