Reasons behind Homelessness for Young People

Young people often leave their homes due to family violence, mental health issues and or substance misuse. They often couch surf, live in cars or can be in temporary accommodation.  Young people make up 21% of the homeless population of Australia. Youth Homelessness and Overcrowding AIHW

Impact of Homelessness on Young People

Being homeless can limit access to medicine, treatment and basic hygiene and expose young people to sexual exploitation, violence and social isolation (Davies & Wood 2018). Homeless young people can also experience high levels of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, behavioural problems and alcohol and drug misuse.  (Aldridge et al. 2017; Heerde & Patton 2020).

How can we Help

We need to help young people at a community level and an individual level.  Young people need safe and secure affordable accommodation.  They need support to keep that accommodation through participation in training, employment, health support and also support from the wider Community to give them a sense of belonging.

For more information on ending homelessness read Queensland Housing and Homelessness Action Plan 2021-2025

References:  

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2021). Homelessness and Overcrowding. AIHW. Retrieved November 04, 2022, from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/children-youth/homelessness-and-overcrowding