Mental health

Mental health is important for everyone, and while people in rural Australia are often seen as naturally resilient, they can still face tough times like anyone else. However, accessing mental health services in these areas can be challenging, leaving people even more isolated when they need help the most.

In 2023/24 the RFDS provided 43,743 face-to-face mental health consultations around Australia

Through funding provided by governments and donors, the RFDS works to bridge the gap in access to mental health services. The RFDS provides a range of mental health services from visiting mental health clinics, 24 hour telehealth services, to emergency air transfers of people requiring city-based acute care. Dedicated RFDS mental health professionals visit remote towns and properties to provide further treatment, support, as well as education about mental health issues for individuals and communities.

RFDS Research: Mental Health in Rural and Remote Communities

In early 2017 the Royal Flying Doctor Service released the research paper "Mental Health in Rural and Remote Communities".

This research reveals remote Australians die on average from suicide at twice the rate of city people, yet are only able to access mental health services at a fifth of the rate of city people. It also identifies farmers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identifies people as among the most at risk of suicide.

The research shows there is no difference in common mental health risk factors of family history, stressful events, substance use, and health problems between city and bush, country residents risk exacerbated mental illness because of insufficient early intervention and prevention services.

You can read the full research paper here.

Mental Health and Wellbeing in Queensland

Mental Health and Wellbeing in QLD

The Flying Doctor's mental health and wellbeing services assist in addressing the health needs of those in rural and remote areas.

Mental Health and Wellbeing in NSW/ACT

Our mental health team provides direct clinical services to people living in remote communities to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Mental Health and Wellbeing in VIC

The Flying Doctor provides free access to mental health and wellbeing services in several areas across Victoria. This is a confidential support service that helps you connect to mental health professionals to help you through tough times.

Mental Health and Wellbeing in SA/NT

The RFDS Mental Health & Wellbeing Service supports adults and young people in outback South Australia and the Northern Territory.