top of page
Search

Depression and Skid Row Poverty

MFHF



Depression and poverty are interconnected, and the presence of poverty, such as in the case of Skid Row, can contribute to higher rates of depression. Here's how poverty on Skid Row can impact depression:


Depression creates a sense of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair, which are risk factors that stress and trauma leads to living in poverty, particularly in an environment like Skid Row. This exposes individuals to chronic stress, unsafe living conditions, and a constant struggle to meet basic needs.


Chronic stress, also, can contribute to the development of depression and exacerbate existing symptoms. Skid Row residents are surrounded with evidence of; and have probably experienced traumatic events, such as homelessness, violence, or substance abuse, which further increases the risk of depression.



Social Isolation


The homelessness community, although a large subset within the overall community can lead to social isolation and can lack the necessary support to access networks that are available to them.


Skid Row residents often deal with stigmas and marginalization, making it challenging to form and maintain positive social connections that can lead to socially accepted ideas of normal and healthy relationships and activities. This social isolation and lack of motivation for social support can contribute to feelings of loneliness, sadness, and depression.


Lack of Treatment


Inadequate access to healthcare can hinder individuals on Skid Row from receiving proper diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for depression. Lack of mental health services and proper accountability, affordability of medications, and other factors can prevent individuals from accessing necessary support for managing and treating their depression.


Addressing depression within the context of Skid Row poverty requires comprehensive strategies. Here are a few ideas:


Mental Health Services


Ensuring affordable and accessible mental health services that take an active community role that is tailored to the needs of the Skid Row population. Establish mobile mental health professionals, within the Skid Row community; outreach programs, and mobile units that provide mental health support directly within the community.



Integrated Support Programs


Integrated service models that combine mental health services with housing assistance, substance abuse treatment, employment support, and other essential resources. Collaboration among different sectors, including healthcare, social services, and housing agencies, to address the multifaceted needs of individuals on Skid Row and a cohesive plan to be able to present to the displaced person as an option.


Trauma-Informed Care

Providing trauma-informed care that recognizes and addresses the traumatic experiences individuals may have faced. Ensuring mental health professionals and service providers are trained in trauma-informed approaches to support Skid Row residents can help with creating relationships within the community that can lead to healthy to healthy outcomes.


Social Support and Community Engagement:

Facilitating programs that foster a sense of community, social connection, and

belonging among Skid Row residents could change the culture of systemic attitudes rooted in poverty culture.

By addressing the root causes of poverty, increasing access to mental health services, and promoting social support, it is possible to reduce the impact of depression on Skid Row residents and improve their overall well-being.


How You Can Help: ❖ Become a volunteer ❖ Share your profession to help educate and build others

❖ Monetary donations of any amount ❖ In-Kind Donation of Products

Learn More About Us:

www.MyFriendsHouseLA.org

Twitter & Instagram: @WeFeedTheHungry Facebook: My Friends House LA Contact Us: 1244 E. 7th Street

Los Angeles, CA 90021 (213) 537-0105


62 views0 comments

댓글


bottom of page