Part 3: The Impact of Homelessness on Mental Health
As we wrap up this series on homelessness let’s take a look at the big takeaway messages from each installment so far.
- In Part 1, we explored statistics, reasons for homelessness, and the importance of advocacy and awareness as well as the importance for compassion and care when approaching this population.
- In Part 2, we explored the often-overlooked health risks and concerns faced by homeless youth. Notably we talked about the fear of judgment to seek medical care and how compassion and care, resources and advocacy are incredibly important to help homeless youth be taken care of in their most vulnerable state.
In Part 3, we are going to explore how experiencing homelessness at a young age can have lasting impacts into adulthood, and discuss strategies for overcoming trauma, processing emotions, and reclaiming personal identity that may have never had a chance to blossom until later in life.
Just like any traumatic instance in life we often carry the experience with us forever. The feeling of where am I going to lay my head down tonight, or where will my next meal come from should not have to be a thought of a child, an adult or anyone, but these thoughts run daily in the minds of so many. These thoughts can have lasting impacts even when that reality is no longer.
Here are some examples of how homelessness can take a toll on the psychological wellbeing:
- Trauma and Stress: Youth experiencing homelessness often face traumatic events such as abuse, violence, or the sudden loss of stability. These experiences can lead to PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and severe anxiety.
- Isolation and Loneliness: Lack of stable relationships and social support networks can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are detrimental to mental well-being.
- Depression and Hopelessness: Persistent uncertainty about basic needs like food and shelter, coupled with societal stigma, can lead to depression and a sense of hopelessness about the future.
The effects of homelessness on youth can extend far beyond their immediate circumstances. Taking experiences from youth years into adulthood is how the brain develops and how we evolve on so many levels: think socially and mentally.
Here are some of the way’s homelessness impacts adulthood long term:
- Developmental Delays: Homelessness during critical developmental stages can impair emotional and cognitive development.
- Educational Disruption: Instability in housing often leads to frequent school changes or dropout, limiting educational attainment and future opportunities.
- Chronic Mental Health Issues: The stress and trauma of homelessness can predispose individuals to long-term mental health conditions that persist into adulthood.
Despite these challenges, many youth experiencing homelessness demonstrate incredible resilience. In Part 2, we learned about the barriers to find help however there is certainly a population that are met with support and overcome this obstacle. Help does not find everyone and resilience is not always developed. For some, this situation consumes them. The Street Outreach Program is here to provide that support. The program helps to foster positive coping mechanisms and cultivates a sense of hope for the future.
To learn more about support services for youth in need of a safe place to live, visit https://www.centerffs.org/our-services/trauma-victim-response/street-outreach-services or contact their 24/7 helpline at 800.355.0660.
Youth experiencing homelessness profoundly impacts mental health and physical health shaping not only immediate well-being but also future life trajectories. By understanding these impacts and advocating for supportive policies and resources, we can empower homeless youth to overcome adversity, heal from trauma, and build fulfilling lives.
Together, let's recognize the resilience of homeless youth and work towards creating a society where everyone has access to the support and opportunities needed for mental health and well-being.