Mental Health + Homelessness: A Holistic Resource

NIMBYism (which stands for Not In My Backyard) continues to be prevalent in today's society, especially when mental health and homelessness are involved. Residents of an area often cite concerns around property values, safety, or the overall character of the neighborhood. This behavior can manifest as opposition to not only housing resources such as shelters, but also the establishment of mental health services such as group homes and supportive housing in residential areas. The relationship between mental health and NIMBYism is often complex due to the stigma around mental illness and fear of the unknown.

To combat this, it requires education, engagement, and efforts to combat stigma. Communities can help dispel misconceptions and foster greater acceptance and support by providing accurate information and the benefits of supportive housing. One such organization in the Portland area is LifeWorks NW. This non-profit organization offers a range of services to assist individuals experiencing homelessness in the Portland area in addition to mental health services. These services include:

    1. Housing Assistance Programs: These programs aim to help individuals secure stable and safe housing. This could include transitional housing, rapid re-housing initiatives, or rental assistance programs. 

    2. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment: Many individuals experiencing homelessness also struggle with mental health or substance abuse disorders. LifeWorks NW offers counseling, therapy, and substance abuse treatment services to address these underlying issues, which could benefit someone who experiences this as a hurdle.

    3. Case Management Services: Case managers can work one-on-one with individuals experiencing homelessness to develop personalized plans for housing, employment,  and other necessary resources. They can help clients navigate the complexities of the social service system and connect them with other community resources, while additionally acting as an advocate or mediator when needed. 

    4. Employment Services: Securing stable employment is often crucial for individuals experiencing homelessness, and LifeWorks NW offers job training, resume assistance, and job placement services. They can also assist with helping clients find and maintain employment.

    5.  Supportive Services: LifeWorks NW additionally offers various support such as transportation assistance, childcare services, or access to basic necessities such as food and clothing. 

Overall, this organization takes a more holistic approach to addressing homelessness by providing services aimed at addressing an individual's immediate needs and the underlying factors contributing to their housing instability. By providing these services and offering community education, you can show that someone experiencing homelessness or mental illness isn't something to fear, they are just another person like everyone else in the community. 

You can learn more about this organization and its services offered here: https://www.lifeworksnw.org/about-us/