Mental health and homelessness - issues linked in social and economic development.

Homelessness has long been a stark and undeniable symbol of the socioeconomic disparities that persist today.

The statistics and heartbreaking stories have made it evident that there is a desperate need for adequate public housing and support.

But with Anthony Albanese's new public housing initiative taking centre stage, there's an element often relegated to the background: the mental health crisis that intertwines with homelessness.

Understanding the connection between mental health and homelessness is critical. A significant proportion of homeless individuals suffer from severe mental health conditions, which often either precede or are exacerbated by their lack of stable housing.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 20% of the homeless population reported having a mental health condition, with many more undiagnosed due to lack of access to health services.

This interplay between mental health and homelessness underlines a deeper systemic problem.

Without appropriate mental health support, many find it difficult to maintain jobs, relationships, and, ultimately, housing.

And without a stable living environment, people with mental health problems often experience a worsening of their symptoms - creating a vicious cycle.

While the PM’s initiative to build more public housing is commendable and necessary, it may not be the panacea everyone hopes for if the mental health aspect of the equation isn’t equally addressed.

The PM’s primary focus on housing infrastructure, without a concurrent robust initiative targeting mental health services, could potentially only serve as a temporary fix to a very difficult problem.

Albo’s initiative, at its heart, seeks to provide shelter to the homeless.

Public housing can certainly help offer a safe environment, but it's only one piece of a multifaceted complex puzzle.

Offering a roof without comprehensive support services, especially for mental health, will more than likely lead to a revolving door problem, where those who do suffer with mental health problems, find themselves back on the streets due to untreated underlying issues.

Furthermore, public housing can inadvertently create clusters of high need without adequate resources – potentially amplifying problems if residents with severe mental health conditions aren’t receiving the care they need.

If the government genuinely wants to address homelessness in a transformative way, it must recognise the central role of mental health.

Here's how the funding could be better spent:

Instead of solely building public housing units, funding should prioritise the establishment of housing that integrates mental health services.

It ensures residents not only have shelter but access to treatment and supportive community environments.

Catching mental health issues early can go along way to preventing the spiralling effects that lead to homelessness. Investing in school-based programs, community clinics, and public awareness campaigns help in early detection and treatment.

The thought of providing a roof over someone’s head, doesn’t make the problem go away – it’s a thought of hope rather than an application of understanding with a view to a permanent resolution.

Merely providing shelter doesn't mean a person with mental health issues has the capability to maintain their home.

If people with severe mental health conditions aren’t offered tailored support, will struggle to adhere to housing regulations, and a return to the streets.

Stable housing is only one part of reintegrating homeless individuals into society.

They also need access to mental health services, job training, social support, and more.

Ignoring these components in favour of a simplified housing-first approach could lead to people potentially being isolated, with their underlying issues remaining unaddressed.

And while all the will of good intent seems noble, economically ignoring the mental health component might lead to higher long-term costs.

Hospital admissions, law enforcement, and other emergency services the homeless require with unmanaged mental health conditions, can impact significantly on the public purse.

Investing upfront in comprehensive mental health services will inevitably if administered properly, lead to cost savings in the long run.

So, how could funding be better spent?

Instead of viewing housing and mental health services as separate entities, they should be entwined and develop public housing projects with on-site mental health clinics, providing residents with immediate access to the care they need.

Focusing on early intervention and preventive mental health services, makes it possible to address potential issues before they escalate.

Schools, workplaces, and community centres should have programs in place to identify and support those at risk.

Equipping people with the skills they need to secure stable employment is crucial. Vocational training and job placement services can help people with mental health issues to reintegrate into the community, bolstering self-worth and independence.

By changing the community’s perceptions around mental health goes a long way to eliminating the stigma surrounding it.

A more informed public leads to better community support and understanding for those grappling with mental health issues.

While public housing initiatives like those proposed by the PM are essential in addressing the homeless crisis, they might not achieve their full potential unless the intertwined issue of mental health is given equal attention.

It's critical to view homelessness and mental health as interconnected facets of the same problem, deserving of a holistic solution.

If Australia really wants to make headway with a dire problem that as a developed country we shouldn’t have, it's time for policymakers to adopt a more comprehensive approach, ensuring every dollar spent provides the maximum benefit for those most in need.

Investing wisely today can save more than just money; it can save lives and pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive Australia.