The Connection Between Mental Health and Homelessness

Mental illness is a significant factor in homelessness, and addressing mental health issues is an important part of addressing homelessness. In fact, it is estimated that up to 25% of homeless individuals have a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. At the same time, homelessness can also exacerbate mental health issues, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.

There are a number of ways in which mental health and homelessness are connected:

1. Mental illness can lead to homelessness.
Individuals with mental illness may struggle to maintain employment, pay rent, and manage their finances. This can lead to a loss of housing and eventually homelessness.

2. Lack of access to treatment can contribute to homelessness.
Many individuals with mental illness do not have access to the treatment they need, whether due to a lack of insurance, lack of available treatment options, or other barriers. This can lead to a worsening of mental health symptoms and an increased risk of homelessness.

3. Homelessness can worsen mental health.
The stress and instability of homelessness can worsen mental health symptoms and make it more difficult for individuals to manage their illness. This can create a cycle in which homelessness and mental health issues feed off of one another, making it more difficult for individuals to achieve stability and recovery.

4. Mental health treatment can help prevent homelessness.
By addressing mental health issues and providing individuals with the support and treatment they need, it is possible to prevent homelessness and improve outcomes for individuals with mental illness.

There are a number of strategies that communities can use to address the connection between mental health and homelessness:

1. Provide access to mental health treatment.
Ensuring that individuals with mental illness have access to the treatment they need is an important step in preventing homelessness. This can include providing access to mental health services through insurance, creating more treatment options, and addressing barriers to treatment such as transportation and cost.

2. Utilise housing first models.
The housing first model prioritises providing homeless individuals and families with permanent housing as the first step, rather than requiring them to meet certain requirements or complete certain programs before being eligible for housing. This approach has been shown to be effective in reducing homelessness and improving outcomes for individuals and families, including those with mental illness.

3. Implement supportive housing programs.
Supportive housing combines affordable housing with supportive services such as case management and counselling. This approach can be particularly effective for individuals and families who have been chronically homeless or have complex needs, including those with mental illness.

4. Offer benefits support.
Many people with mental health issues may be eligible for benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Universal Credit. Assistance with navigating the benefits system and applying for these benefits can aid individuals in accessing the necessary support to maintain accommodation and manage their mental health.

By addressing the connection between mental health and homelessness, communities can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who are experiencing homelessness and mental illness. By providing access to treatment, utilising housing first models, implementing supportive housing programs, and providing benefits assistance, we can help individuals with mental illness achieve stability, recovery, and a better quality of life.