Over the years, more and more people have become unhoused or find themselves at risk of homelessness. Major factors are constant increases in rent, high unemployment rates, and an overall expensive cost of living. It can be incredibly challenging to experience these stressors and they may impact an individual’s well-being, increasing the risk of developing mental health issues. In this blog, you will learn how we define the unhoused, who is often affected, why there is a societal stigma, and what supportive services exist.
Defining Unhoused
First, what does the term “unhoused” mean?
Someone who is “unhoused” is lacking a permanent, safe place to live. Some individuals might be sleeping in places not meant for human habitation, such as park benches and storage facilities. Others could be living in their cars or constantly shifting from home to home. Unhoused is a more progressive, person-first, and inclusive way of addressing folks in this group and encompasses many different living situations. We prefer to use this term over “homeless” because it usually has a negative stereotype associated with it.
Unpacking Stigma
When you hear the term “homeless,” what comes to mind? For some, they might have a specific image associated with the term. It could be someone labeled as being lazy, looking disheveled, or acting out aggressively. However, these are harmful stereotypes that are not representative of everyone who is experiencing homelessness. Individuals without a home may be enrolled in school, report to work, or raise children. We must work to eliminate the stigma around this population by becoming informed about the diverse experiences and characteristics of those who are considered housing insecure.
Populations Affected
Various individuals can find themselves in an unfortunate situation that leads to losing their home. This might even include those that we least expect because they may have previously had a fulfilling job, strong family ties, or a positive mindset. Some may also hide their living situation due to fear of not knowing how they may be perceived. Who are some of the common groups that are affected? Those who are often deemed at risk are veterans, domestic violence survivors, queer youth, and college students. Let’s take a minute to learn more about these different groups below.
#1: Veterans
The first major population affected are veterans or ex-military members.
Individuals who have served can have a hard time adjusting to civilian life after being discharged. Some may experience significant flashbacks or have difficulty focusing. According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 11-20% of veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also struggle with substance use disorders. There are strong consequences in the workplace for those struggling with alcohol or drug dependency, which can cause some to lose their main source of income and become unhoused as a result.
For veterans seeking immediate support, the US. VETS Long Beach offers programs for those seeking emergency shelter, low-income options, and permanent housing.
#2: Domestic Violence Survivors
Another group severely at risk of homelessness is survivors of domestic abuse.
“92% of homeless mothers have experienced severe physical and/ or sexual violence in their household and felt it was best to leave their homes”, expressed by VAWnet.
Those who have experienced domestic violence in their life have endured a complex type of trauma whether it be from their significant other, parent, friend, etc. Due to their unsafe environment, many must flee their homes in search of shelter. Some fear their attacker might discover their location and may rely on temporary housing more frequently.
The Women’s Shelter Long Beach is a local resource that provides immediate emergency supportive housing to survivors of domestic violence and their children. Those seeking services can receive case management, legal support, access to support groups, parenting assistance, and more.
#3: LGBTQ+ Youth
When you think of those without a home, do you also think of youth as well?
Children and adolescents who identify as LGBQ+ can become unhoused due to an unsafe or unsupportive environment. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a greater risk, especially when they have parents who are not accepting of their identity. This can cause tension and make it difficult for queer youth to live in a safe and affirming space. In the worst-case scenario, they can be kicked out of their home and become displaced. Minors who have family troubles may also choose to run away and find a community outside their household.
For youth experiencing potential displacement, Volunteers of America can support them with housing resources. The Trevor Project also provides advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth facing mental health crises.
#4: College Students
Lastly, we want to talk about a group that is often overlooked: college students. This group is usually not one that we consider at-risk but can experience barriers to housing.
Higher education can be expensive, especially for those who may not qualify for scholarships or have support from their families. This puts some in a situation where they have to choose between education and rent or their basic needs. College students who are always on the go may sleep in their cars for convenience. Some might crash at a friend’s house or rely on gyms for showers. The fear of burdening others might lead them to want to choose different places to sleep each night. “Couch Surfing,” an informal term, is used to describe someone who is constantly residing in other people’s homes (specifically sleeping on their couch) for short or extended periods.
For those who attend Long Beach City College (LBCC), the LBCC Safe Parking Program is dedicated to supporting those experiencing housing insecurity. Through this program, unhoused students who are enrolled at Long Beach City College (LBCC) can sleep in their vehicles overnight with protection from the school. The Basic Needs Department oversees this program and provides students with services to support them through their academic journey. Programs like this and more are crucial in helping unhoused individuals find community, work opportunities, mental health resources, and social services to help them rebuild their lives.
Mental Health Impact
The stress of not having a permanent place to live can greatly affect one’s mental health and make it hard to create stability in their life. This can create increased anxiety, fear, and feelings of worthlessness.
According to Psychology Today, 20% to 25% of the U.S. unhoused population deal with severe mental health issues. Common mental health disorders among this group include depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Mental health issues often cause behavioral problems, which makes it challenging to maintain consistent employment and a stable income. The lack of access to healthcare or mental health support leaves many unhoused individuals without the necessary help to manage their conditions. So, to cope with their mental health challenges, 36% of unhoused people abuse alcohol and 26% turn to substance abuse, which leads to addiction and further complicates their mental and financial situations, as stated by American Addiction Centers.
Overcoming Barriers
Our society tends to have certain attitudes and assumptions about those experiencing homelessness. As a result, unhoused individuals are more likely to be rejected by employers for jobs, harassed by law enforcement, and at risk of community violence. This negative treatment can lead to a lack of community support and respect, creating significant barriers for them to overcome. We will talk about how each of these barriers can affect the unhoused population.
Employment Discrimination
Many people believe that those without a home are unwilling to work. The reality of the situation is that there are added barriers to securing employment when someone is housing insecure. This can include lack of access to reliable transportation, professional clothing, or solid references. Additionally, those who are housing insecure may not have a permanent address to include on their job applications. A person looking disheveled may give an employer a reason to assume and unfairly judge their character as being unreliable and unprofessional, even if the candidate is qualified for the position. This bias makes it harder for an unhoused person and can prevent them from being able to secure employment to improve their living situation.
Tension With Law Enforcement
There are strict laws that prevent sleeping in public. The Public Property Storage restrictions in Long Beach, for example, make it illegal for unhoused individuals to store their belongings in public spaces. By allowing the city to confiscate or dispose of personal items left on public property, these restrictions often result in the loss of essential belongings they have gained, such as identification and medication. This not only deepens the challenges faced by unhoused individuals but also creates additional barriers to stability and self-sufficiency. The constant threat of legal punishments and displacement adds to the stress and instability faced by unhoused individuals.
Community Violence
Supportive Services
Despite these challenges, there is progress being made in reducing stigma and creating a more compassionate and understanding approach towards the treatment of the unhoused population. There are various churches, nonprofit organizations, and community hubs that are working to provide an extra layer of support for the unhoused. Shelters can create safe spaces for people to sleep in rather than having to remain on the streets.
Community Resources
Long Beach Multi-service Center (MSC): The City of Long Beach offers a variety offers a variety of services for the unhoused community through this comprehensive resource hub. For those seeking immediate care, you can also call 211 to see how to get connected to emergency housing support at the MSC.
The Salvation Army: A nonprofit organization providing food, shelter, and rehabilitation services for those in need. Visit their website for the most updated food distribution schedule.
Long Beach Rescue Mission: This local advocacy group arranges emergency resources and necessities for people experiencing food and housing insecurity.
National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH): A network of individuals and organizations united by a commitment to end homelessness through awareness and support.
The Guidance Center believes that homelessness is a crucial issue that needs to be addressed. We remain dedicated to supporting those in need through our comprehensive, accessible mental health services and referrals to community resources. By understanding and addressing the mental health challenges unhoused individuals face, our community can strive to create a more supportive society.