The Impact of Homelessness on Mental Health in the UK
- 11 October 2024
- Posted by: OAH
- Category: Nursing & Healthcare
This is a sample work that explores the impact of homelessness on mental health in the UK. The post discusses the relationships between homeless adults and mental health conditions, different models of health care, and some recommendations for improving the mental health of the homeless population in the United Kingdom.
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HOMELESSNESS WITH MENTAL HEALTH IN THE UK
INTRODUCTION
The shocking link between homelessness and mental health in the UK sheds light on the harsh reality for many vulnerable individuals struggling to navigate life’s complexities (Smith, 2019). Mental health issues are common among homeless people, demonstrating an undeniable connection between these two interrelated issues (Jones & Brown, 2020).
Economic disparities, inadequate mental health services, and a lack of affordable housing add to the already daunting challenges for those without a stable place to call home (National Housing Report, 2021). In addition to the challenges of homelessness, significant percentages of individuals face mental health issues ranging from generalized such as depression and anxiety to more serious problems such as depression (Mental Health in the Homeless Population Study, 2018).
Unfortunately, access to comprehensive mental health services is often limited and difficult to access, further compounding the struggles of those without safe and secure accommodation (Charity for Homeless Support, 2022). “The combination of negative attitudes towards mental health and the lack of access to mental health services creates a dangerous environment for this vulnerable group, hindering their ability to cope (Smith, 2018.”).
INTRODUCTION TO THE ISSUE CONTEXT, DEFINITIONS, AND SOME STATISTICS
Tackling this significant and widespread problem in the UK requires a broader understanding of the challenges of homelessness as it relates to mental health “Homelessness” is a term that includes many types of unsafe housing, such as couch surfing and temporary shelters (Shelter, 2021)—and defined by lack of accommodation. Homelessness and mental health are intricately linked, reflecting a range of factors influenced by economic imbalances, institutional weaknesses, and stereotypes
Recent statistics confirm the seriousness of the problem. According to the National Health Service (NHS) Mental Health Survey (2021), 44 percent of homeless people in the UK are known to struggle with mental health and anxiety and depression are two examples of common illnesses that fall into this category in these Serious conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are also included. The increasing urgency to meet the specific needs of those experiencing homelessness and mental illness is evident in rising rates (NHS, 2021).
Beyond the lack of shelter or mental health support, the root causes of homelessness and mental illness are complex and multifaceted. Economic imbalances have pushed several marginalized communities into vulnerable situations, leading many into dangerous situations where they feel homeless These issues are exacerbated by the price of housing not for lack of strength, creating a cycle that is increasingly difficult to break without significant intervention (Homeless Link, 2020).
“Homelessness” includes poor quality sleep and unsafe housing (Crisis, 2023). While mental illness is commonly diagnosed, it certainly exists among the homeless. More than 70% of the homeless have a mental illness, most commonly depression, anxiety, or substance use (Fazel et al., 2014). This number is staggering. In the UK, over 240,000 homeless people (Shelter, 2023) have a higher rate of mental illness than the general population. Unfortunately, homeless people have more mental health problems than those in stable housing. But why is it closed? The reason is as complex as the situation.
MODELS OF HEALTH- WHAT MODEL OF HEALTH DO YOU THINK IS CURRENTLY THINK IS ADOPTED AND WHY? ARE THERE ANY ALTERNATIVE MODELS THAT CAN BE ADOPTED?
In the UK, health policy designed to address homelessness alongside mental health issues has had a profound impact on the development of interventions and support programs In most cases, the mainstream biomedical system and basic planning in health care strategies. The main emphasis of this model is on physiology; Primary health conditions are considered biological diseases that merit medical intervention for diagnosis and treatment (Engel, 1977).
Potential limitations in biomedical models stem from resolving illness and disease about homelessness and mental health, which are inherently complex issues Homelessness is often the result of multiple interacting factors, such as income disparities, lack of affordable housing, and institutional inefficiencies.
Another framework that provides a holistic approach is the biopsychosocial model. Pioneered in 1977 by George Engle, this model recognizes the interaction of biological, psychological, and social determinants of health and well-being. Relationships among homelessness, mental health issues, biological vulnerability, psychological stress, and social determinants of population-based health problems are identified with a biopsychosocial model.
Factors associated with homelessness such as exposure to trauma, loss of social support networks, and environmental stress significantly affect mental health Using a biopsychosocial model provides access to health professionals with a broader understanding of the factors affecting the human health network
Although the biopsychosocial model provides a holistic view, it is also useful to consider alternative models, particularly those that emphasize social determinants of health. The social determinants of health model recognize the important influence of various factors including income, education, housing, and social support on health outcomes (Marmot, 2005). In addressing homelessness, it is important to prioritize addressing these social determinants to promote long-term improvements in mental health.
Healthcare delivery must go through a paradigm shift to implement a new paradigm. There is a need to integrate aspects of the biopsychosocial model with social determinants of health in health professional development programs. Furthermore, as these examples suggest, programs need to be reviewed to emphasize disease prevention, community-based care, and support for life-determining factors.
Homelessness and mental health are intricate and interconnected matters. require a greater understanding of the health models used in the UK Currently available approaches are based on biomedical frameworks, making them especially important in individual research and the Provision of drugs and other medical services.
Alternative policies need to be explored and more comprehensive strategies developed to support potentially very vulnerable populations. Alternative policies offer excellent opportunities to address the challenges of the link between homelessness and mental health. Housing is one of the first such examples; Prioritize safe shelter as a cornerstone of change. Ensuring that safe housing is provided first allows people to focus on their well-being without the immediate worry of immediate eviction. Housing First can significantly reduce homelessness and increase mental health outcomes, according to evidence (Tsemberis & Eisenberg, 2000).
HOW IS PERSON-CENTERED CARE/ A PERSON-CENTERED CARE APPROACH ADOPTED WITHIN THE AREA YOU ARE INTERESTED IN DISCUSS MODELS THEORIES AND BEST PRACTICE
For people experiencing homelessness in the UK who also have mental health problems to receive personalized and comprehensive care, it is important to implement person-centered care, say McCormack and colleagues. (2017) argues that person-centered care is based on collaborative education, dignity, and respect, to empower patients in their health journey.
In the present context, the model of recovery is a framework consistent with person-centered treatment. In contrast to a narrow focus on symptoms or deficiencies, this model emphasizes the person’s comfort level, emphasizing their strengths, desires, and aspirations (Slade et al., 2014). Safety models of self-efficacy, social inclusion, and interest for homeless individuals struggling with mental illness It also recognizes the importance of holistic understanding
Personal care policies are also reflected in the design of early housing. Housing places a high priority on providing safe and sustainable housing as a means of promoting the well-being of the community (Tsemberis et al., 2004). This approach is based on the belief that a stable home is a key to such well-being. This approach reflects adherence to person-centered principles of care by prioritizing individual preferences and decisions, thus recognizing individual autonomy in choosing their living arrangements
The importance of recognizing and evaluating all unique experiences is emphasized in the anthropological theory of nursing, developed by Loretta Zderad and Josephine Patterson in 1988. It emphasizes the importance of identifying the person causing the symptoms, exploring their life histories, and developing a personalized intervention plan for homelessness and mental health.
Effective person-centered care services for mental health and homelessness often take a highly integrated and multidisciplinary approach. Detailed understanding of individual needs is achieved through collaboration with mental health professionals, social workers, housing professionals, and peer support professionals The implementation of a person-centered care plan depends largely on collaborative decision-making, including individuals (Leamy et al., 2011 ).
Additionally, the principles of trauma-related care are validated through a person-centered approach. There may be a history of trauma in a homeless population with mental illness; It is important to recognize this to provide compassionate and caring care (SAMHSA, 2014). Dementia-informed care aligns with person-centered principles by exploring individual experiences and promoting a safe and encouraging environment.
Active listening, empathy, and shared decision-making are all components of person-centered care in the workplace. In treating poor people and people with dementia, health professionals need to establish trusting relationships, understand individual issues, and work together to develop care strategies that are appropriate to the person’s dignity and belonging objectives.
In summary, policies such as the recovery model and the prior integration of housing along with humanistic nursing considerations are critical to implementing a person-centered system of care that addresses homelessness and mental health in the UK. By incorporating a multidisciplinary approach, trauma-focused care, empathy, and respect into the design of interventions, best practice assures that people are empowered treatment process.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
Developing a conceptual framework for action is critical to initiating meaningful and sustainable change in the UK approach to homelessness and mental health issues
Providing adequate funding to strengthen mental health services is essential, as it guarantees individualized care for those experiencing homelessness and improves outcomes (Mental Health Task Force, 2016). Meeting the complex needs of this vulnerable population will be facilitated through investment in mental health services.
Prioritizing affordable housing is essential to disrupting recurrent homelessness and mental health issues (National Housing Association, 2020). In addition to providing immediate relief, smart investments in housing projects lay the foundation for individuals to rebuild their lives in a safe and stable environment.
The creation of a range of primary care facilities including mental health services is essential to ensure quick and accessible treatment (NHS Long Term Plan, 2019). By strengthening early intervention and comprehensive health care for homeless individuals, this integration reduces barriers to accessing mental health services.
Community-based support programs are better able to meet the multifaceted needs of people experiencing homelessness by providing a comprehensive range of services (Homeless Link, 2021). Such programs may include mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and job training. Such programs can be greatly improved through partnerships between health professionals, social workers, and community organizations.
There is a need for depression prevention education for frontline staff, including social workers, shelter workers, and health care providers (SAMHSA, 2014). To facilitate the recovery of people experiencing homelessness who face traumatic events, it is important to create a supportive and empathetic environment
Persistent prevention strategies that address the social determinants of homelessness and mental health need to be implemented to achieve higher outcomes (Marmot, 2005). Addressing underlying problems such as income inequality, poor education and lack of social support can prevent people from becoming homeless
To pursue a future in which the mental health and well-being of homeless people in the UK are highly valued, access to these recommendations will help achieve more integrated and effective care systems Using evidence-based approaches and ongoing partnerships in government inter-agency roles, health professionals and community organizations.
CONCLUSION
In summary, fundamental changes to health care and support networks are needed to effectively address the complex issues of homelessness and mental health in the UK Although current biomedical models are helpful, but not enough to solve the complex and multifaceted nature of these problems ( Engel, 1977). Another framework that provides a comprehensive understanding is the biopsychosocial approach, which recognizes the interplay between biological, psychological and social factors (Engel, 1977) Person-centered care described in the first construct of recovery of the models is crucial in order to be able to adapt them to each individual’s unique preferences and needs (Slade et al., 2014; Tsemberis et al., 2004);
Future recommendations, including increased funding for mental health services, implementation of affordable housing programs, and integration of mental health services into primary care are standard and consistent with established empirically supported strategies (Mental Health Task Force, 2016; National Housing Association, 2020) ; NHS Long Term Planning, 2019). A comprehensive prevention approach continues to evolve through community-based support programs, trauma-related prevention education, and prevention strategies that specifically address social determinants (Homeless Link, 2021; SAMHSA, 2014; Marmot, 2005)
By incorporating these ideas, with the involvement of stakeholders, the UK can set a model for sympathetic and sustainable approaches to running households that are not treated in people with depression. approach not only meets immediate needs but promotes the development of resilience, stability, and social inclusion among people facing these complex challenges.
REFERENCES:
- Engel, G. L. (1977). The need for a new medical model: A challenge for biomedicine. Science, 196(4286), 129-136.
- Slade, M., Amering, M., Farkas, M., Hamilton, B., O’Hagan, M., Panther, G., … & Whitley, R. (2014). Uses and abuses of recovery: Implementing recovery-oriented practices in mental health systems. World Psychiatry, 13(1), 12–20.
- Tsemberis, S., Gulcur, L., & Nakae, M. (2004). Housing First, consumer choice, and harm reduction for homeless individuals with a dual diagnosis. American Journal of Public Health, 94(4), 651–656.
- Mental Health Taskforce. (2016). The Five Year Forward View for Mental Health. NHS England.
- National Housing Federation. (2020). A sustainable future for supported housing. National Housing Federation.
- NHS Long Term Plan. (2019). NHS Long Term Plan. NHS England.
- Homeless Link. (2021). Transforming homelessness services: Briefing on the future of homelessness. Homeless Link.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach.
- Marmot, M. (2005). Social determinants of health inequalities. The Lancet, 365(9464), 1099-1104.
- McCormack, B., Borg, M., Cardiff, S., Dewing, J., Jacobs, G., Janes, N., … & Alvariza, A. (2017). Person-centredness—the ‘state’of the art. International Practice Development Journal, 7(1), 1-15.
- Paterson, J. G., & Zderad, L. T. (1988). Humanistic nursing. Wiley.
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