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Published in: Community Mental Health Journal 5/2019

01-07-2019 | Brief Report

Perceptions of Service Use Among Currently and Formerly Homeless Adults with Mental Health Problems

Authors: Nick Kerman, Sophia Gran-Ruaz, Madalynne Lawrence, John Sylvestre

Published in: Community Mental Health Journal | Issue 5/2019

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Abstract

This qualitative study used in-depth interviews to examine the service experiences of 52 currently and formerly homeless people with mental health problems. Thematic analysis identified five themes associated with positive and negative service experiences: (1) accessibility of services, (2) humanity in approach to care, (3) perceptions and relationships with other service users, (4) physical space and environment, and (5) outcomes of service use. Overall, minimal differences were found between currently and formerly homeless people with mental health problems, suggesting that both groups have the same wants and needs related to service use, including to be treated fairly and without judgment, receive needed support and assistance, and feel good following their service experience. However, both groups also described encountering barriers to accessing programs and navigating service systems; using services where they felt judged, unsafe, or uncared for; and having unmet needs following service use.
Literature
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Metadata
Title
Perceptions of Service Use Among Currently and Formerly Homeless Adults with Mental Health Problems
Authors
Nick Kerman
Sophia Gran-Ruaz
Madalynne Lawrence
John Sylvestre
Publication date
01-07-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Community Mental Health Journal / Issue 5/2019
Print ISSN: 0010-3853
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2789
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-019-00382-z

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