Mental Health Challenges and Strengths of Street-Involved Youth: The Need for a Multi-determined Approach

Author： McCay Elizabeth Langley John Beanlands Heather Cooper Linda Mudachi Naomi Harris Andrea Blidner Rebecca Bach Karen Dart Colin Howes Carol Miner Susan

Publisher： McGill School of Nursing

ISSN： 1705-7051

Source： CJNR (Canadian Journal of Nursing Research), Vol.42, Iss.3, 2010-09, pp. : 30-49

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Abstract

The social environments and activities of homeless youth frequently create a downward spiral, leading to drug abuse and survival sex as well as self-harm behaviours and suicidality. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to assess the mental health challenges and strengths of street-involved youth. A convenience sample of 70 homeless young people completed a series of standardized questionnaires evaluating mental health symptoms as well as resilience and self-esteem. Two focus groups were also held to capture the perceived mental health needs of street-involved youth. These young people (aged 16–24) were found to have high levels of mental health symptoms compared to other groups of young adults. However, they also exhibited moderately high levels of resilience and self-esteem. Therefore, multi-component mental health programs and interventions that address both strengths and challenges may well help street-involved youth to work towards social re-integration and, ultimately, improved quality of life.