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Exploring Mental Health Challenges and Risk Factors in the South India Homeless Population: A Descriptive
Subahani Shaik1, Dinesh Panati2, Ganesh Kumar Mallaram3
1Department of Psychiatry, ACSR Government Medical College, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India.
The International Journal of Social Psychiatry
|September 17, 2025
Summary
Mental health issues are prevalent among the homeless, with depression and PTSD being common. Unemployment and substance use are key risk factors, highlighting the need for integrated support services.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
Background:
- Homelessness presents significant public health challenges, especially in developing nations.
- Mental health is often overlooked in homeless populations due to stigma and access barriers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in an urban homeless population.
- To identify risk factors associated with mental health conditions in this group.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study surveyed 192 homeless adults in Nellore, India.
- Standardized psychiatric assessments including M.I.N.I., ICD-10, HAM-D, and HAM-A were used.
- Data analysis involved SPSS to identify associations.
Main Results:
- Nearly half (46.4%) of participants had psychiatric morbidity, with depression (24.5%) and PTSD (16.7%) most frequent.
- High rates of tobacco (73%) and alcohol (48.5%) use were reported.
- Unemployment, substance use, and living alone were significantly linked to psychiatric conditions.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a high burden of mental illness within the homeless community.
- Integrated mental health services and social support are crucial for this vulnerable population.
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