​Homelessness and Mental Illness

Homelessness is often more prevalent amongst people experiencing mental illness. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, 20 to 25% of the homeless population in the United States suffers from some form of mental illness. On the other hand, only 6% of the entire population in the United States is mentally ill. 

 

Mental illness makes it harder for people to form important aspects of daily life such as self-care and household management. In addition, mental illness may prevent people from building stable relationships with the community. As a consequence of these factors, it is more likely for them to become homeless than the general population

[3]. 

​

What makes this situation worse is a public endorsement of negative stereotypes and historical prejudices towards people with mental illness. The misunderstandings of mental disorders give individuals social disadvantages and barriers to using health services [4].  

​