Summary: The Influence Of Psychological Distress On Homelessness

Modern studies have described a high prevalence of psychological disorders among the homeless. As part of a community-based survey of 529 homeless adults, a model was formulated and verified to increase the realization of the issues linked to their psychological distress. Results found that homeless adults were more probable to report psychological distress than the general population (80% vs. 49%). Distress levels were not related with most demographic or homeless characteristics or usual appearance. Conversely, distress was linked with joblessness, significant cigarette and alcohol use, poor physical health, less social supports, and perceived obstructions to locating needed medical care. As psychological, physical, and social health are strongly interconnected among homeless adults, lessening distress among them may be
The study involved a cross-sectional evaluation of 110 mothers and 157 children living in homeless shelters in Los Angeles. The majority (72%) of sheltered homeless mothers expressed high current psychological distress or symptoms of a possible lifetime major psychological illness or substance abuse. Still, few mothers (15%) in need of services obtained mental health care, and the key point of contact for those with a psychological health issues was the general medical sector. Mothers with a possible psychological disorder were also more apt to have children with either depression or behavior issues. Homeless mothers have a greater level of unmet demand for psychological health services. The association between maternal and child issues underscores the need for homeless family interventions that encourage access to psychiatric care for both generations (Zima, Wells, Benjamin, & Duan,