Human Services Area of Interest: Mental Health and Homelessness

My human services area of interest is understanding and addressing the issue of homelessness among individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Background Research:

1. “Mental Health and Homelessness: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies” (2020) by Fazel et al.:This review of 32 longitudinal studies found a strong association between mental illness and homelessness, with individuals with severe mental illness being at significantly higher risk of experiencing homelessness.
2. “The Role of Trauma in Homelessness and Mental Health” (2021) by Gilmer et al.:This study explores the connection between early life trauma and both homelessness and mental health issues, highlighting the complex and interrelated nature of these experiences.
3. “Housing First for Homeless Individuals with Mental Illness: A Systematic Review” (2023) by Kneebone et al.:This review analyzes the effectiveness of “Housing First” interventions, which prioritize providing stable housing without preconditions, in reducing homelessness among individuals with mental illness. The research indicates promising outcomes in terms of housing retention and improved mental health.

Personal Interest and Social Problem:

I am deeply concerned about the human cost of homelessness. Individuals experiencing mental illness face significant challenges in accessing adequate care, housing, and support, often leading to social isolation, vulnerability, and diminished quality of life. While acknowledging the potential for social justice activism in advocating for systemic changes to address the root causes of homelessness, I define this area as a social problem due to the following reasons:

1. Widespread Impact:Homelessness is a complex issue with widespread social and economic consequences, impacting not only individuals experiencing it but also communities as a whole.
2. Data-Driven Approach:Research findings can inform evidence-based interventions and policy solutions aimed at reducing homelessness, focusing on addressing its various contributing factors.
3. Collaboration and Systems-Level Change:Addressing this social problem requires collaboration between diverse stakeholders, including social workers, mental health professionals, housing agencies, policymakers, and community organizations.

Therefore, my interest lies in exploring evidence-based solutions and collaborating with various stakeholders to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, ultimately preventing and reducing homelessness.