Harnessing School, Neighborhood, and Policy Factors to Prevent Mental Health Problems Among Adolescents Experiencing Homelessness

Pilot Project

Project Summary

Many teenagers who don’t have a stable place to live face serious mental health challenges. They are more likely to struggle with depression, thoughts of suicide, and drug use compared to those who have stable homes. Unfortunately, there aren’t many proven ways to help these young people.

This project aims to find ways to support these teens by focusing on the people and places around them—like teachers, schools, and neighborhoods. The idea is that strong relationships and safe environments can help improve their mental health.

110%

Increase in adolescent homelessness since 2004

~20,000

San Diego students experienced homelessness in 2024

2x

Higher likelihood of mental health challenges

What this new project will do

Data Analysis

Look at data from a large survey of California students to see how things like teacher support and neighborhood safety affect mental health.

Teen Interviews

Talk to 25 teens who don't have stable housing to hear their thoughts and experiences.

Youth Collaboration

Work with a youth group that has experienced homelessness to create recommendations for schools and communities.

The research will be done with San Diego Youth Services, a group that helps young people with housing and other needs. The goal is to find practical ways to prevent mental health problems and help teens feel supported, no matter where they live.

Why This Research Matters

This research is important because more and more teens are facing homelessness. It also affects many groups who already face unfair health challenges. By finding better ways to support these teens, we can help make sure everyone has a fair chance at good mental health.

Pilot Project