Using Photovoice to Explore Mental Health and Rural Homelessness in Beaufort County, NC, USA

The objective of this study is to explore the intersection of mental health and homelessness in rural Beaufort County, North Carolina, USA, focusing on the social and emotional well-being (SEWB) of people experiencing homelessness (PEH) and their service providers. The research, which was conducted from 2018 to 2020 using the photovoice method, gathered data from 18 PEH and four service providers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, uncovering the unique challenges faced by rural PEH. The study identifies key external (inadequate infrastructure, food insecurity, systemic marginalization) and internal barriers (stigma, invisibility, alienation) impacting SEWB. The article recommends policies that address these barriers promote inclusive planning, improve infrastructure, and deliver tailored services to foster social inclusion and resilience in rural communities.