Young homeless people suffer increased mental and physical health problems

The study by pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca and youth homelessness charity Depaul UK, documented the experiences of almost 400 16- to 25-year-olds – half of whom were homeless Depaul service users, the rest of which were living in stable accommodation.

The research found that 40 per cent of homeless young people identified themselves as being depressed, while 27 per cent had been diagnosed with a mental health condition by a doctor, compared with seven per cent of non-homeless young people.

The Depaul clients reported a higher usage of walk-in clinics, ambulance and A&E services, and were more frequently admitted to hospital.

In the past 12 months, 37 per cent of the homeless young people had visited A&E, 24 per cent had been in an ambulance and 27 per cent had been admitted to hospital.

In comparison, just 14 per cent of non-homeless young people had attended A&E, three per cent had been in ambulance and six per cent had been admitted to hospital.

The study found that young homeless people do not consider health and health-related issues a priority – since problems such as the need for housing and employment are more pressing.

Two-thirds of young homeless people said they smoke every day, getting through an average of 63 cigarettes a week, compared to only five per cent of the non-homeless group, who reported smoking 28 cigarettes per week.

The young homeless people also suffered from poor diet and nutrition – with only 73 per cent eating at least two meals a day compared to 95 per cent of non-homeless young people.