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
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.