Mental health of the statutorily homeless population: Secondary analysis of the Psychiatric Morbidity Surveys

Abstract

The prevalence of neuroticism, as measured by the CIS-R, was compared across two groups: the statutorily homeless and those in private households, using data from the Psychiatric Morbidity Surveys. Homeless people, many of whom were young adults, experienced twice the rate of neurotic disorder. The raised prevalence was associated with stressful life events such as long-term illness, plus lack of social support. The homeless population visited the GP regularly, but management of their neuroses remained as variable as amongst their housed counterparts. Homeless neurotics were more likely to become in-patients than to be treated on an out-patient basis for their mental health problems. Holistic management of patients facing socio-economic adversity is needed to improve psychiatric morbidity.