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The COVID-19 pandemic has added additional stress to the
rural community, which itself faces different wellbeing
challenges to those of urban Aotearoa. This is according to
today’s Te Hiringa Mahara – the Mental Health and
Wellbeing Commission report, The impact of COVID-19 on the
wellbeing of rural communities in Aotearoa New
Zealand.
Around 16% of the population live in rural
areas, and around 35% in total live outside of large urban
areas – these figures are higher for Māori. The COVID-19
pandemic has highlighted and exacerbated pre-existing
challenges and has had large impacts on these
communities.
“The geographies, economies and cultures
of rural communities present challenges to mental health and
wellbeing outcomes. This is particularly true with respect
to isolation and connectivity, workforce challenges in the
economy and health services, and uncertainty in rural
economies,” says Dr. Filipo Katavake-McGrath, Te Hiringa
Mahara Director of Wellbeing System Leadership and
Insights.
COVID-19 in Aotearoa compounded the stress
farmers and growers were already experiencing. It also
exacerbated pre-existing challenges across healthcare
services, including mental health services. Poor
connectivity meant more people were struggling to get help,
advice and support; with older people even less likely to be
online. The closure of social hubs, such as schools and
libraries, during lockdowns also had large impacts on
communities.
“Our report highlights the challenges
presented to the rural community by these issues, and with a
higher rural population, rural issues disproportionately
affect Māori. It is important to remember that life has not
‘returned to normal’ and the need for support has not gone
away.
“On a positive note, connectedness and belonging
have helped people in rural communities stay positive over
the COVID-19 pandemic. Strong local connections are a source
of strength and support; and this is highlighted in rural
Māori and Pacific communities. During lockdowns, iwi,
marae, community hubs, and communities banded together to
support one another; share information, kai, and resources;
and reduce the some of the worst psychosocial impacts of the
pandemic.
“By working together, and engaging with
government agencies and resources, rural communities have
taken practical action to protect and support themselves. To
keep the momentum going, we call for greater involvement of
rural communities (particularly rural Māori) in planning
and decision-making and better understanding of the diverse
needs, challenges and experiences of rural
communities.”
View the report at https://www.mhwc.govt.nz/our-work/covid-19-insights/
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