Mental and Emotional Health Among Youth Experiencing Homelessness

Youth experiencing homelessness face mental and emotional health challenges from their time unhoused. Empathic care can set them on a path to healing.

Graphic of previously homeless youth escaping cage and reaching out to helping hand | Covenant House - Issues - Mental and Emotional Health

20%

1 in 5 youth in the U.S. will have a mental disorder that significantly impacts their life.

50%

Half of all mental illnesses start by age 14, and 75% by mid-20s.

#2

Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for 10 to 34 year olds in the U.S.

Mental Health and Youth Homelessness

Youth who experience homelessness have significantly higher rates of emotional, behavioral, and immediate and long-term health issues. In fact, 69% of youth experiencing homelessness report mental health challenges. Suicide is the leading cause of death among youth experiencing homelessness, and these youth report high rates of suicide attempts.

former homeless youth receiving check up from doctor | Covenant House - Issues - Mental and Emotional Health

Substance Use

Young people experiencing homelessness face higher rates of alcohol and drug use. For many, substance use offers a means of escape from the physical and emotional trauma associated with life on the streets.

Substance use among young people experiencing homelessness has been reported as two to three times higher than that found among non-homeless young adults. About 10% of youth will be diagnosed with a substance use disorder in their lifetime, yet 29% of youth experiencing homelessness report having substance use problems.

Covenant House youth receiving a check up from staff | Issues - mental and emotional health

Mental Health by the Numbers at Covenant House

Our sites have mental health counseling, licensed clinical social workers, and/or psychiatrists on staff to help young people process trauma and begin their journey to healing.

4,100

Each year, around 4,100 youth engage in on-site mental health services annually.

50%

More than half of our residential youth report a mental health issue at intake.

69%

An even higher percentage of LGBTQ+ youth report a mental health issue at intake.

Happy youth interacting with Covenant House Staff | Issues - Mental and Emotional Health

“At Covenant House, I found structure and support. And I learned to talk about my depression without shame. I learned that mental illness, like any other illness, can be treated. My eyes and my heart were opened up to so many different experiences."

Carlos Salazar, Covenant House California Alumnus

Know the Issues That Drive Youth Homelessness

Young people experiencing homelessness face numerous challenges that hinder their ability to become independent, successful, and fulfilled adults.

Help Youth Facing Mental and Emotional Challenges

Your support will ensure that young people experiencing homelessness will receive the support they need to face mental and emotional health challenges.