SWK 661 6

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1 6.2 Assignment: Literature Review Tangala Parker Indiana Wesleyan University SWK 661: Research Proposal 1 Aaron Cheek February 11, 2024

2 Abstract The homeless community grapples with severe mental health disorders and physical disabilities, which make it difficult for them to find shelter or services that are equipped to handle their specific needs. However, utilizing a mentorship program to identify the homeless's in-depth problems can increase service participation. Homelessness remains a pressing issue that affects both the social fabric and the well-being of individuals, especially those grappling with mental illness. To truly make a positive impact on their quality of life and overall wellness, it is crucial for programs aimed at assisting homeless individuals with mental illness to prioritize two key aspects: ensuring stable housing and providing essential services to meet their basic needs and physical health requirements. Additionally, it is imperative to offer training that empowers individuals to prioritize their safety while also implementing strategies that effectively alleviate depressive symptoms. By addressing these multifaceted needs, we can pave the way for a brighter future for those experiencing homelessness and mental illness (Sullivan et al., 2000).

3 Introduction Various factors influence homelessness and mental health issues in today's world. Some of the most prevalent factors include poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, trauma, and discrimination. Poverty can lead to homelessness as individuals may lack the financial means to afford housing. People with mental illness may struggle to find the necessary resources and support to live independently, increasing their risk of homelessness. Substance use can also contribute to homelessness as it may hinder job stability and housing maintenance. Those who have experienced trauma may find it challenging to cope with daily life, increasing their vulnerability to homelessness. Discrimination can also play a role, as it may limit access to housing and resources. It is essential to recognize that these factors are not exhaustive, and each person's experience is unique. Literature Review The inaugural umbrella review (2020) presents the comprehensive prevalence of various mental disorders within the homeless population. By amalgamating the outcomes of evidence- based reviews, it becomes evident that there is a substantial burden of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders, bipolar and mood disorders, substance use disorders, suicidal behavior and self-injury, posttraumatic stress disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and other psychiatric conditions. Notably, these high prevalence rates extend beyond adults and are also observed among homeless children and adolescents (Hossain et al., 2020). Evidence-based insights should be utilized to inform and shape future policies, programs, and services aimed at effectively preventing, diagnosing, and treating mental disorders among individuals experiencing homelessness (Hossain et al., 2020). According to Sleet and Francescutti, homelessness is strongly connected to the decline in physical and mental health.

4 People who are homeless often face numerous health issues, alcohol and drug addiction, mental illness, tuberculosis, and other serious conditions. These health problems arise from various factors, such as lack of housing, racism, and discrimination, limited access to healthcare, inadequate food and protection, limited social services, and insufficient public health infrastructure. Attempts have been made to address homelessness through legal and policy interventions, although not always considering public health. Having shelter is a fundamental human need. However, there is limited understanding of all the factors that contribute to homelessness and why so many people lack adequate housing. Non-housing plays a crucial role in addressing homelessness and is extensively studied as a social determinant of health. Some professionals argue that housing is synonymous with good health and that offering better housing options to homeless individuals and families would enhance the population's overall health. (Sleet & Francescutti, 2021). In social science research, a few studies explored the connection between individual characteristics, such as race and gender. They forced displacement from housing despite the long-standing interest of researchers and policymakers in housing discrimination. Many studies on housing discrimination concentrate on the unfair treatment's impact on racial residential segregation when it comes to buying or renting housing (Desmond & Gershenson, 2017). The "state of the art" review states that peer support is a process whereby individuals who lived experience of a particular phenomenon can provide support to others by sharing their personal experience. People who experience homelessness have some of the most complex intersecting health and social challenges". The review provides a systematic search and synthesis of literature examining peer support models within services for people impacted by homelessness and substance use problems (Miler et al., 2020). According to the Sparc study (2021), racial

5 disparities and homelessness in the United States use a combination of research methods in eight communities. They compare the racial and ethnic backgrounds of individuals experiencing homelessness to the general population and those living in poverty. Additionally, it examined how race and ethnicity are linked to housing outcomes. The interviews with 195 people of color explore the factors that contribute to homelessness and its effects. The findings reveal that Black/African Americans and Native Americans are disproportionately represented among the homeless population in each community. The interview data suggested that people of color face obstacles such as limited access to housing and economic opportunities, racism and discrimination within homeless services, and involvement in multiple systems, including the criminal justice system. The association between race, ethnicity, and outcomes varies among youth, single adults, and families. They express the importance of addressing racial justice in homelessness research and policymaking (Olivet et al., 2021). Rachael Dobson’s article examines how institutions address the needs of homeless adults. It argues that there is much discussion and research on the various challenges homeless individuals face. These challenges are seen as both mental and physical health issues, as well as a need for care and support. Personal experiences and societal events, including trauma, influence them. The responses to these complex needs are seen as innovative, proactive, and aimed at prevention and positivity. Different factors are driving these responses, such as legislation, policies, and funding in the fields of homelessness, housing support, and adult social care in England. However, ongoing debates exist about what constitutes social needs and the effective ways to address them. These debates are also present in international discussions about homelessness support models in the Western North. The term "complex needs" is a flexible

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