The individuals with mental health issues cycle through county services: hospital emergency departments and, social services.  Even if there is access to care, there are cultural stigmas to mental illness that are particularly acute in rural areas and may keep people from seeking care. In a small community where everyone knows everyone, many do not want their car seen in the parking lot of a behavioral health specialist.  Despite all of the obstacles, a movement toward changing the balance of access and care in rural regions is showing signs of life. 

We have found that those individuals with mental health problems that do not seek help or treatment will often become involved in the aforementioned substance abuse problem in our county.  These individuals may turn to prescription drugs or illegal drugs to help the mental conditions that they have (self-medicate) instead of seeking help with a professional. There is a lack of medical providers for Stokes County. The area north of the mountain range is considered medically underserved.  With partnerships within the county we hope to improve access to mental health services.  Also, we are now working with Vaya Health to increase mental health access for everyone.  If we are able to increase access, then more individuals will receive counseling and medication for conditions they have.  At this time, we have increased suicide rates which are more than likely due to lack of mental health help when needed.