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By Seraphina Eberhardt, Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies East County
November 30, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) – As we observe National Homeless Youth Awareness Month this November, we can shine a light on the growing crisis affecting communities nationwide, including San Diego's East County. Homelessness is not just a housing issue. It is intertwined with substance misuse and mental health challenges.
According to The National Child Traumatic Stress Network, (NCTSN), November was first declared as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month in 2007. Since then, November has been a time to acknowledge those children and families experiencing homelessness. NCTSN reports that as many as 2.5 million youth experience homelessness annually. Along with losing their home, community, friends, and routines, as well as their sense of stability and safety, many homeless youth are also victims of trauma. Homeless youth can be exposed to dangers, with an increased likelihood of substance misuse, early parenthood, impulsivity, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and a vulnerability to being trafficked, according to NCTSN.
One of the factors contributing to homelessness nationally and locally is substance misuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that individuals who struggle with substance use disorders are more likely to experience homelessness. Mental health is another piece of this puzzle. Many individuals experiencing homelessness suffer from untreated or under-treated mental health conditions. SAMHSA's data indicates that almost a third of homeless individuals have a serious mental illness. These mental health challenges often go hand-in-hand with substance misuse, creating a dual diagnosis that requires specialized care and intervention.
San Diego’s Regional Task Force on Homelessness published the comprehensive San Diego County Coordinated Community Plan to End Youth Homelessness (2019-2024). San Diego Youth Services is a nonprofit dedicated to offering a continuum of care for children and youth from infancy to age 25. SDYS points out 10 facts about youth homelessness.
San Diego County’s Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities, Office of Homeless Solutions, has been working to address these issues. Its approach includes partnerships with local organizations, shelters, and healthcare providers to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness receive the comprehensive care they need. The office publishes a Program Reference Guide.
The County runs the 211 San Diego hotline that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week where you can call or go online at 211SanDiego.org for information about housing resources. East County Transitional Living Center has a youth services component. Home Start is a San Diego-based nonprofit that also serves youth in the East County. Statewide, the California Coalition for Youth has a Youth Crisis Line.
IPS works alongside communities to build power, challenge systems of inequity, protect health, and improve quality of life. IPS has a vision for safe, secure, vibrant and healthy communities where everyone can thrive. To learn more about IPS East County, follow us on our social media platforms: IPS East County Facebook, IPS East County X, and East County Youth Coalition Instagram. Our website is at IPSEast.org. Resources and services are available to assist with screening, treatment, and recovery for individuals with a substance use disorder via the Access & Crisis line, which is open year-round, 24/7 at (888) 724-7240 or dial 988.
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