Poor, Rural and Female: Under-Studied, Under-Counseled, More At-Risk

The feminization of poverty has been well documented, and the relationship between the experiences of poverty and negative mental health outcomes has been identified. These consequences remain largely unexamined for women living in rural areas that comprise a population both at risk and underserved by mental health professionals.The dynamics of poverty for these women and the relationship between poverty lifestyles and physical and mental well-being is explored.A model for assessment and mental health interventions is presented. Implications for mental health counseling and for research are considered.