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Outreach interventions for the homeless mentally ill
1City University, London.
British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|January 24, 1998
Summary
The number of homeless individuals with mental illness in Britain is increasing, necessitating changes in mental health services. Assertive outreach and diverse care models are proposed to better support this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Social Work
Background:
- A growing number of individuals experiencing homelessness in Britain also have mental illness.
- Existing mental health services may not adequately address the needs of this isolated demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scale of homelessness among mentally ill individuals in Britain.
- To identify necessary changes in mental health services to meet this challenge.
- To explore innovative service delivery models.
Main Methods:
- Review of the current scale of the problem.
- Analysis of the need for change in mental health services.
- Discussion of assertive outreach interventions.
- Examination of innovative projects with diverse care providers.
Main Results:
- Mainstream psychiatric services require a more diverse and open approach.
- Assertive outreach interventions are a viable strategy.
- Projects involving voluntary workers, past service users, and professional mental health workers offer an alternative framework.
Conclusions:
- There are significant professional and social implications for psychiatric nurses and mental health practice.
- A shift towards more inclusive and proactive mental health care is essential.
- Innovative models can improve support for homeless mentally ill individuals.