October 21, 2020

Mental Health Challenges Among Women and Girls who are Homeless: System-Based Causes

Lack of housing has profoundly negative effects on the mental health of women and girls who are homeless. Research shows that – compared to housed women – women who are homeless are more likely to experience severe mental health issues – including PTSD, depression, and anxiety – and that these challenges are often linked to factors such as childhood abuse or neglect and violent victimization on the streets. Disparities are evident within homeless populations as well. In a national survey of over 1,100 homeless youth across Canada, young women who experienced homelessness had significantly poorer mental health than cisgender young men, and a higher suicide attempt rate (59% vs. 39%). 

Let us repeat: almost 60% of young women on the street in Canada have attempted suicide at some point in their lives.

When we think about mental health difficulties, we often think about individual causes and personal suffering. However, research points to a number of public system failures that contribute to mental health distress amongst women who are homeless or precariously housed. For example, studies show that:

These systemic failures point to some of the solutions that are needed, including significant preventative upstream investments in gender sensitive, mental health supports for women and their families before they experience homelessness. 

For women who are homeless and struggling with mental health and substance use challenges, The Community Living Room program has been shown to be an effective model. Key program elements were identified as: “(1) peer support, (2) flexible services and resources, (3) supportive program leadership, and (4) gender-sensitive services provided by women,” all within a harm reduction approach. 

As the second wave of COVID-19 deepens in parts of Canada, it is critical that we ensure access to high quality mental health supports for women, girls, and gender diverse people who experience homelessness. Given evidence of the detrimental impacts of the pandemic on mental health, we must make sure that access to help does not depend on one’s housing status. 

Disclaimer
The analysis and interpretations contained in these blog posts are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness.