Homelessness and mental health among youth: a research perspective

Homelessness among youth is a continuing problem in the US as prevalence rates remain high. Youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) endure multiple mental health struggles, trauma and victimization while living on the streets. Research notes that most YEH underutilize available services several barriers to service access have been identified. Although a few studies have been conducted to test services and interventions that address the unique mental health needs of YEH, such as housing first, outreach and drop-in centers, motivational interviewing and substance use treatments, more research to guide mental health providers is sorely needed.