Homelessness And Mental Health Problems And Policies ✓ Solved

Homelessness and Mental health Problem, and its Policies

Homelessness and mental health issues pose significant challenges in the United States, with over 144,000 individuals facing homelessness and mental illness concurrently. This situation not only leads to stress and isolation but also adversely affects both physical and mental health. Social work, which emphasizes connecting individuals with essential services, becomes increasingly complicated when dealing with the overlap between homelessness and mental health disorders.

To understand the gravity of this issue, it is crucial to acknowledge that approximately half a million Americans experience homelessness on any given day, with untreated severe mental illness affecting one-third of this population. Many individuals do not recognize or have access to necessary mental health services, amplifying their struggles. Specifically, states like New York and California account for 40% of the nation's homeless cases, indicating a concentrated need for policy and community intervention.

Several strategies have been implemented to address these intertwined issues. Direct housing initiatives aim to provide safe, stable housing for homeless individuals without prerequisites related to mental health stability. This approach is paired with supportive mental and medical health services to ensure comprehensive care. Similarly, documentation strategies have been put in place to keep track of efforts aimed at alleviating homelessness and the relevant health issues associated with it. This process minimizes the risk of neglecting individuals in need of assistance.

Changing Demographics and Substance Use Trends

The demographic landscape of homelessness and mental health has changed over time. Alcohol use disorder has been more prevalent in homeless men; however, there has been a notable increase in occurrences among women since the 1980s. Concurrently, drug use disorder has surged, especially among women, highlighting an urgent need for targeted intervention.

By 2000, 59% of homeless women and 85% of homeless men were reported to struggle with alcohol or drug use disorders, accentuating the intersection of substance abuse with mental health conditions. This has resulted in significant rates of psychiatric disorders, necessitating holistic approaches in social work and mental health services.

Policy Development and Implications

Policy responses to homelessness and mental health have evolved over the years, notably with the Health Professionals Training Acts. This legislative framework provided a foundation for collaboration between various healthcare and social service sectors, aiming to improve care delivery for homeless individuals. The McKinney Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 further defined 'homeless' and established guidelines for support services.

Despite these policies, challenges persist. Healthcare professionals often find it challenging to practice effectively within social service settings, which leads to inefficiencies and a lack of cohesion in service delivery. Issues of divided loyalty among staff working both in social services and the healthcare sector further complicate efforts to provide consistent care.

Evaluating the Impact of Policies

Programs such as the Johnson-Pew project have emerged as efforts to unify care for homeless individuals with mental health challenges. By integrating diverse healthcare professionals, including social workers and nurse practitioners, these initiatives promote a multidisciplinary approach to homelessness. They focus on making healthcare accessible where the homeless reside, which is critical for ensuring that individuals receive both preventive and ongoing care.

The Need for Advocacy and Systemic Change

Unfortunately, many current policies impose strict requirements that hinder the effectiveness of support systems. The demand for a permanent address poses significant barriers to accessing essential services. Given the intrinsic challenges faced by this population, advocacy efforts must intensify to promote systemic change. Addressing the decline in affordable housing availability is vital, as it directly correlates with unemployment and overall socioeconomic health in the United States.

A focus on mental health services must also be prioritized to improve individual well-being and stabilize living conditions for homeless populations. By addressing these critical issues, one can not only enhance the lives of marginalized individuals but also contribute positively to national growth and economic stability.

References

• Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Health Care for Homeless People. (1988a). Dynamics of Homelessness. National Academies Press (US).
• Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Health Care for Homeless People. (1988b). Health Care Services for Homeless People. National Academies Press (US).
• Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Health Care for Homeless People. (1988c). Summary and Recommendations. National Academies Press (US).
• Mental illness & homelessness how social workers help. (2020, January 22).
• North, C. S., Eyrich, K. M., Pollio, D. E., & Spitznagel, E. L. (2004). Are rates of psychiatric disorders in the homeless population changing? American Journal of Public Health, 94(1), 103–108.
• McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. (1987).
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). Homelessness and Mental Illness.
• National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2021). Policy & Advocacy: Mental Health.
• U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. (2020). Strategies for Accountability in Housing and Health.
• Wagner, A., et al. (2018). The Intersection of Homelessness and Mental Health: A Review of Policy Recommendations. Journal of Social Issues, 74(2), 364-396.