Homelessness can be a traumatic experience. However, what many of us may not realize is that it can also be the result of traumatic experiences. A growing body of research is drawing a strong connection between childhood adversity and homelessness. These Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can include emotional or physical abuse and neglect as well as household mental illness and substance abuse. Newer research is beginning to incorporate community-level ACEs such as bullying, economic hardship and discrimination.
While the association between ACEs and negative health outcomes impacts all populations and socio-economic levels, people experiencing homelessness often have much higher ACE scores. Not only are ACEs overrepresented among the homeless population, but being homeless can actually compound these negative outcomes. In 2019, The National Health Care for the Homeless Council released findings that show children living below the Federal Poverty Line are 5 times more likely to experience 4 or more ACEs compared to those living in financially stable households. Housing-insecurity can place children further at risk for ACE exposure due to the impact of unstable and unsafe living conditions.
Understanding these early indicators can provide a foundation for preventative treatment. Early screening is critical to identify risk factors that require community services and support. This type of intervention can prevent risk factors from developing and worsening due to homelessness. Programs such as Early Risers, which aim to strengthen parenting strategies for homeless caregivers, have been clinically proven to reduce depression and behavioral problems in children and improve confidence in parenting. Other potential intervention strategies include exposure mitigation and mental health treatment.
Programs directed toward reducing negative outcomes of ACEs may be just what we need to prevent more children and families from experiencing homelessness. Click here for more information.
No comments:
Post a Comment