Analysis and Promotion of Mental Health Services for Unhoused Individuals

Abstract

Unhoused individuals in Northeast Tennessee experience significant barriers to accessing mental health services despite the availability of resources. Factors such as inadequate communication, lack of transportation, and inefficiencies in service delivery contribute to these challenges. Additionally, the prevalence of co-occurring homelessness and mental illness is rising. This evidence-based project investigates the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health services for unhoused individuals by identifying service gaps and enhancing communication among providers. The project employs a three-phase approach. The first phase consists of a literature review on mental health, homelessness, and supportive services; this informs the development of an interview guide, to be used in the second phase. In this phase, semi-structured interviews are conducted with local service providers to assess resource availability, service limitations, and areas for improvement. Data analysis identifies key patterns and actionable insights from the interviews. In phase three, findings are synthesized and referenced to develop reporting tools for case management meetings. These forms are developed under the guidance of a community partner to enhance interprofessional communication. By bridging research and practice, this project contributes to the existing literature and offers practical strategies to improve service coordination. The results aim to inform future community-based interventions, promoting a more integrated and accessible mental health care system for unhoused individuals.

Start Time

16-4-2025 9:00 AM

End Time

16-4-2025 10:00 AM

Room Number

210

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Presentation Subtype

Community Engaged Showcase

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 16th, 9:00 AM Apr 16th, 10:00 AM

Analysis and Promotion of Mental Health Services for Unhoused Individuals

210

Unhoused individuals in Northeast Tennessee experience significant barriers to accessing mental health services despite the availability of resources. Factors such as inadequate communication, lack of transportation, and inefficiencies in service delivery contribute to these challenges. Additionally, the prevalence of co-occurring homelessness and mental illness is rising. This evidence-based project investigates the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health services for unhoused individuals by identifying service gaps and enhancing communication among providers. The project employs a three-phase approach. The first phase consists of a literature review on mental health, homelessness, and supportive services; this informs the development of an interview guide, to be used in the second phase. In this phase, semi-structured interviews are conducted with local service providers to assess resource availability, service limitations, and areas for improvement. Data analysis identifies key patterns and actionable insights from the interviews. In phase three, findings are synthesized and referenced to develop reporting tools for case management meetings. These forms are developed under the guidance of a community partner to enhance interprofessional communication. By bridging research and practice, this project contributes to the existing literature and offers practical strategies to improve service coordination. The results aim to inform future community-based interventions, promoting a more integrated and accessible mental health care system for unhoused individuals.