Young people run away or become homeless for a variety of reasons, many of which can be linked to psychological and emotional trauma. Whether it’s abuse, the consequences of living in poverty, a lack of empathy and support for their self-identity, or some combination of the three, runaway and homeless youth (RHY) often experience significant challenges to their happiness and well-being. Many confront this situation even before they encounter the perils of setting off on their own. Once they run away, they are susceptible to a host of additional dangers and health risks, many of which can exact additional tolls on their mental health.
Complex Trauma and RHY
Youth.gov reports that, relative to the general youth population, these young people “experience higher rates of a number of psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, and conduct disorders) and often lack access to health and behavioral health care.” Other studies have found that as much as 84 percent of homeless youth exhibit symptoms of at least one psychiatric disorder(link is external).
While homelessness is highly correlated with a number of psychological and psychiatric factors, research is less clear on the cause and effect relationship between homelessness and mental health issues. Data point to one important relationship; young people who experience prolonged or chronic homelessness seem to be at higher risk. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation reports,
[For more on this issue brief, go to https://rhyclearinghouse.acf.h...trauma-informed-care]
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