Homelessness and children's use of mental health services: A population-based study

This study examined whether children who become homeless differ from other low-income children in their mental health service use before and after their first homeless episode, and to what extent homelessness is associated with an increased likelihood of mental health service use. Differences between children with and without new onset of sheltered homelessness in the use of mental health services emerged following homelessness and widened over time. Sheltered homelessness and foster care placement history were associated with increased odds of receiving inpatient and ambulatory mental health services. Findings underscore the importance of collaborations between homeless assistance, foster care, and mental healthcare in efforts to mitigate family homelessness and collateral needs among homeless children.

► Children with and without new onset of sheltered homelessness are followed.
► Homeless children receive more inpatient and ambulatory mental health services.
► Differences in mental health service use emerge following homelessness.
► Sheltered homelessness functions as a gateway for mental health services.
► Foster care appears to be a conduit to mental health services for homeless children.