At the heart of this issue is a shared aim: communities where everyone can live with dignity, safety, and support.
Addressing homelessness and mental health together — rather than in isolation — means building systems that are flexible, person-centred, and grounded in real experiences. When cities work both in secure housing and accessible mental health services, the community as a whole becomes stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
Breaking the Cycle: Homelessness and Mental Health in Our Cities
Homelessness and mental health challenges are often talked about separately — but in real life, they’re closely connected. For many people without stable housing, the stress and uncertainty of life on the streets or in temporary shelters can wear down emotional well-being. At the same time, living with a mental health condition can make it much harder to find or keep a home. This creates a cycle that’s hard for individuals and communities to break. feantsa.org+1
Why the Connection Matters
Research across Europe confirms that people experiencing homelessness are far more likely to face mental health challenges than the general population. While figures vary, many studies show significantly higher rates of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health issues among people without secure housing. feantsa.org
This relationship works both ways:
- Homelessness can worsen mental health as people deal with stress, isolation, and lack of safety. PMC
- Mental health struggles can increase the risk of becoming homeless, especially when support systems are weak or inaccessible. Private Therapy Clinic Ireland
How Cities Are Responding
Many cities are shifting toward innovative solutions that recognise housing as a foundation for health and stability. One standout approach is Housing First — a model that provides people with a permanent home first, without requiring them to prove they are ready for it. Once housed, individuals can access the support services they need, including mental health care. webgate.ec.europa.eu+1
This model has been implemented in cities across Europe and is linked to high rates of stable housing, better engagement with support services, and improved well-being. In some cases, up to 8 out of 10 participants maintain housing long-term after entering Housing First programs. SOM Salud Mental 360
What This Means for Our Communities
Understanding how homelessness and mental health influence each other helps local teams design better responses:
- Support services work best when they’re joined up — connecting housing, health, and social support instead of offering them separately. feantsa.org
- Stable housing isn’t just shelter — it’s a platform for recovery and participating fully in community life. webgate.ec.europa.eu
- Collaboration matters: frontline workers, policymakers, health professionals, and community groups all play a role in supporting people’s well-being.
Looking Ahead
Breaking the cycle between homelessness and mental health won’t happen overnight — but by prioritising housing as a human right and ensuring accessible, compassionate support, cities can help individuals find stability, dignity, and a real chance at a better future.
