Integrating Culture Into Care: Leveraging Community Engagement to Address Anxiety in a Rural Community

We share insights from a community engagement studio aimed at addressing anxiety in Quay County, a remote rural area in New Mexico. The studio involved eight local experts representing various sectors, including health care, education, and faith-based organizations. These experts identified key insights surrounding anxiety, including its causes, community perceptions of mental health services, and strategies for addressing anxiety within the community. Contributions included a rubber band metaphor to describe lingering anxiety, the role of societal pressures (particularly for men), and the impact of physical activity and infrastructure on mental well-being. The studio also highlighted the importance of integrating faith-based support and promoting community pride as a mental health intervention. Our insights underscore the value of community engagement in understanding and addressing mental health challenges in rural settings.