Life histories of trauma, risk, and stress have been linked with the development of psychiatric and substance use disorders in homeless women/mothers. Although many homeless women who are caring for their dependent children do not meet criteria for serious mental illnesses, those with a history of trauma and abuse frequently meet DSM-IV criteria for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), and experience these disorders at levels that impede functioning in important life domains. The condition of being homeless is associated with a number of stress factors for homeless mothers, including: increased exposure to violence, perceived hopelessness, feelings of shame and failure, endless logistical problems associated with the lack of transportation, child care, lack of privacy, and child behavioral and school problems.
This presentation will discuss initial information collected from the study sites involved in the CMHS/CSAT Homeless Families Initiatives on mental health, trauma, and substance abuse, link this information to published literature, and discuss the implications for treatment and service programs.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Understand the trauma and mental health needs of homeless women. 2. Understand how trauma and mental health needs of homeless women affects treatment and service programs.
Keywords: Mental Health, Substance Abuse Treatment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.