There are high numbers of people experiencing homelessness (PEH) in Ireland. PEH have complex needs, and have higher rates of mental disorder than their housed counterparts. To date, there has been limited research conducted on this population, and their specific needs.
In this study, we explored the demand for the three specialist mental health services for people experiencing homelessness (MHSPEH) in Dublin by evaluating all referrals received over a 1 year period.
Participants included all persons referred to the three (MHSPEH) over 1 year between 1st July 2022 and 30th June 2023. We examined several key aspects of psychiatric service provision for the population including; population characteristics, psychiatric and Medical History, referral outcomes, alternative pathways and complex health needs.
There are high rates of mental illness and co-morbid vulnerabilities found in this population. Appropriately addressing the needs of this population will require an integrated, multisystem approach.
