Framework: Mental Illness and Homelessness
Although the problem of mental health among the homeless is a very complex issue, the following framework has been created to demonstrate the factors that can influence the onset of mental illness. The factors identified on the path to mental illness are supported by evidence that demonstrate the effect, or higher rates of the factor among the homeless population.
Although the problem of mental health among the homeless is a very complex issue, the following framework has been created to demonstrate the factors that can influence the onset of mental illness. The factors identified on the path to mental illness are supported by evidence that demonstrate the effect, or higher rates of the factor among the homeless population.
Mental Health Among Homeless Risk Factor Framework
Figure: Framework explaining the risk factors pertaining to mental illness in homeless individuals.
Adapted from: WHO – Risks to Mental Health, 2012; Foresight project, 2008; Kieling et al.,2011; Fisher et al., 2011.
Adapted from: WHO – Risks to Mental Health, 2012; Foresight project, 2008; Kieling et al.,2011; Fisher et al., 2011.
The Mental Health Among Homelesss Risk Factor
Framework demonstrates:
- The factors that influence mental health which are also experienced by the homeless population.
- These factors are also considered determinants of health, meaning that they are factors that are a part of an individuals life that contribute to health, either good or ill health. Some of these are also social determinants of health, and they are the factors that reflect a position in society or relative position to others, that is related to the tools, skills, or resources a person has to influence their health.
2. We can categorize factors into many different levels
- Some factors are more closely related to the individual. Other factors relate to the societal or cultural environment of the individual. These factors can still impact an individual's mental health status.
3. Mental Illness can develop through multiple paths.
- Therefore, understanding the source of mental illness in homelessness is complex.
4. These factors can occur at any time throughout the life course.
- The factors that contribute to mental health and homelessness can occur early on in life, or later in life. The outcome of mental illness, or homelessness, does not discriminate based on age.
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Below is evidence for the factors depicted in the Mental Health Among Homeless Framework.
Individual Factors:
Family/Community:
Socio-economic environment:
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