Mental Health & Homelessness: How Case Managers Can Help

This World Mental Health Day, we’re bringing attention to the link between mental health and homelessness. “A mental health condition isn’t the result of one event,” says the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “Research suggests multiple, linking causes. Genetics, environment and lifestyle influence whether someone develops a mental health condition. A stressful job or home life makes some people more susceptible, as do traumatic life events.” Homelessness can be a traumatic event that influences a person’s mental illness symptoms.

Improving the Lives of People with Mental Health Disorders while Homeless

While 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness each year, 52% of Lifebridge clients identify as having a mental health disorder. However, programs that provide stable housing for a year or longer to people with mental illnesses can help improve mental health outcomes. This recovery can include reducing the number of visits to inpatient psychiatric hospitals.

In addition, “improved access to health care reduces the severity and duration of mental health conditions,” says the American Psychology Association. Lifebridge case managers work with people experiencing homelessness so they can access these essential mental and physical health benefits. These services are available at our main campus and recuperative care center in Salem, River House in Beverly, and the Grace Center in Gloucester.

Why Medicare Matters to People Experiencing Homelessness

For a community where chronic illness, disability, mental health, and substance use disorder are prevalent, the loss of access to medical and behavioral health care would be devastating. When health needs go untreated, individuals are less able to stabilize housing, seek employment, or sustain recovery—creating a cycle that deepens inequities. Cuts to Medicare would also affect close to 90% of those we serve who rely on it for healthcare. You can add your voice to the call to strengthen Medicare here, and we invite you to quote this article in your letter.

Partnering with Vulnerable People Who Need Health Care

Regardless of what remains available over time, barriers and obstacles to getting Medicare continue to keep many people experiencing homelessness from getting the health care they need. Even basic services require complex, interlocking documents and digital access. Lifebridge case managers bridge that gap by partnering with our clients for free. Your donations help us continue to provide these services for free to the people who need them.

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