Addressing Intersecting Social and Mental Health Needs Among Transition-Age Homeless Youths: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Homelessness among youths is a poorly understood and complex social phenomenon. The authors examined the risk factors for homelessness among transition-age young adults, including the unique mental health concerns that often perpetuate the cycle of poverty and housing instability among these youths. The authors discuss the treatment gaps for mental health conditions in this population and identify potential solutions for reducing existing barriers to care. A literature review revealed that many studies report high rates of trauma and subsequent mental health problems among homeless youths. Intervention studies are challenging to conduct with this population and often have high attrition rates. Youths who are homeless desire mental health services and are especially enthusiastic about programs that address interpersonal difficulties and emotion regulation. Clinical data suggest that future interventions should address trauma more directly in this population. Technology-based interventions may help address the needs of homeless youths and may maximize their access to care. Because youths strongly prefer technology-based platforms, future research should integrate these platforms to better address the mental health needs identified as most salient by homeless youths. The authors discuss proposed policy changes at local, state, and federal levels to improve uptake of this proposed strategy.

Keywords: Homeless mentally ill; Homelessness; Housing; Transition age; Youth.