Informing mental health research priorities and design with rural and agricultural communities: a public involvement consultation case study

PurposeThe purpose of this case study is to undertake a public involvement consultation with members of a rural and agricultural mental health support organisation to explore mental health research priorities and factors relating to research study design that may support or prevent participation.Design/methodology/approachA multi-methods approach was used for data collection for this case study: an online survey (n = 29) and qualitative community group discussions (n = 10). Findings are presented descriptively and analysed with content analysis to generate indicative research priorities and recommendations for future mental health research study design.FindingsThree research priority themes were identified: improving rural health service provision; understanding the impact of rural living and working on mental health; improving community connections. Research design recommendations involve where to promote studies to increase engagement in rural and farming communities, communicating clarity over time and place and clear involvement of farmers and rural community members as part of the research team.Originality/valueThis is the first reported mental health research consultation case study exploring the views of rural and agricultural community members about aspects of research study design and local research priorities.