Exceptions, where such strategies might be counter-productive, are for paranoid and psychotic people. However, a major stumbling block to implementing such time, cost and travel-effective options, will be how professional services are billed and reimbursed. Rural mental health service demand currently outstrips service availability in rural Australia. This creates cumulative tension and frustration and eventually apathy, among health service providers. On the contrary, depression among rural dwellers is now a significant feature and risk of rural lifestyles.
Country living no longer carries the idyllic connotation of a generation or two ago.
Within the framework of the National Mental Health Strategy, this planning framework takes into account the State's extant mental health service structure, its priorities and service provision issues, as all States will do. In acknowledging 'Depression as a disease of major and growing proportions' the blueprint foreshadows Tasmania's participation in the three year 'Depression action plan' currently being prepared. This is a significant Statement of intent and goodwill with high likelihood of translation into practical reality in a number of areas, specifically those with a record of early adoption of initiatives. Rural health and some areas of mental health fit that description. Pilot projects and the sustainability imperative Political savvy and opportunism can be rewarded in marginal rural seats.