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Rutt L, Springer V, Geib K, Middlekauff E, San E, Eby J. Occupational Justice: Staff Member's Understanding of the Role of Occupational Therapy within Organizations Serving Persons Experiencing Homelessness. Occup Ther Health Care 2024; 38:400-413. [PMID: 37916783 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2023.2243512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the understanding of occupational justice and occupational therapy's role among staff members working within organizations serving persons experiencing homelessness. A survey was developed to determine if staff (N = 43) understood what occupational therapists can do to help persons experiencing homelessness. Responses were split almost equally between agree/strongly agree and disagree/strongly disagree. Most or 95% (n = 38) of respondents stated their organization would be interested in increasing programming to support the ideas of occupational justice. This suggests that occupational therapy can fill a need in these organizations to promote occupational justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Rutt
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - V Springer
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - K Geib
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - E Middlekauff
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - E San
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - J Eby
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
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Leung T, Elias S, Sieu V, Peredo R. The Use of Technology to Provide Mental Health Services to Youth Experiencing Homelessness: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e41939. [PMID: 36645703 PMCID: PMC9887515 DOI: 10.2196/41939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing interest in using information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve access to mental health services for youth experiencing homelessness (YEH); however, limited efforts have been made to synthesize this literature. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to review the research on the use of ICTs to provide mental health services and interventions for YEH. METHODS We used a scoping review methodology following the Arksey and O'Malley framework and guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis. The results are reported according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). A systematic search was conducted from 2005 to 2021 in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Maestro and in ProQuest Thesis and Dissertations, Papyrus, Homeless Hub, and Google Scholar for gray literature. Studies were included if participants' mean age was between 13 and 29 years, youth with mental health issues were experiencing homelessness or living in a shelter, ICTs were used as a means of intervention, and the study provided a description of the technology. The exclusion criteria were technology that did not allow for interaction (eg, television) and languages other than French or English. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative approaches. Two reviewers were involved in the screening and data extraction process in consultation with a third reviewer. The data were summarized in tables and by narrative synthesis. RESULTS From the 2153 abstracts and titles screened, 12 were included in the analysis. The most common types of ICTs used were communication technologies (eg, phone, video, and SMS text messages) and mobile apps. The intervention goals varied widely across studies; the most common goal was reducing risky behaviors, followed by addressing cognitive functioning, providing emotional support, providing vital resources, and reducing anxiety. Most studies (9/11, 82%) focused on the feasibility of interventions. Almost all studies reported high levels of acceptability (8/9, 89%) and moderate to high frequency of use (5/6, 83%). The principal challenges were related to technical problems such as the need to replace phones, issues with data services, and phone charging. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate the emerging role of ICTs in the delivery of mental health services to YEH and that there is a high level of acceptability based on early feasibility studies. However, our results should be interpreted cautiously, considering the limited number of studies included in the analysis and the elevated levels of dropout. There is a need to advance efficacy and effectiveness research in this area with larger and longer studies. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061313.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Elias
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Youth Mental Health and Technology Lab, Health Innovation and Evaluation Hub, University of Montréal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Vida Sieu
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Youth Mental Health and Technology Lab, Health Innovation and Evaluation Hub, University of Montréal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rossana Peredo
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Youth Mental Health and Technology Lab, Health Innovation and Evaluation Hub, University of Montréal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Marshall CA, Phillips B, Holmes J, Todd E, Hill R, Panter G, Easton C, Landry T, Collins S, Greening T, O'Brien A, Jastak M, Ridge R, Goldszmidt R, Shanoff C, Laliberte Rudman D, Carlsson A, Aryobi S, Perez S, Oudshoorn A. 'We stick people in a house and say okay, you're housed. The problem is solved': A qualitative study of service provider and organisational leader perspectives on thriving following homelessness. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e6018-e6029. [PMID: 36128972 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Research aimed at identifying and evaluating approaches to homelessness has predominately focused on strategies for supporting tenancy sustainment. Fewer studies focus on strategies for enabling thriving following homelessness, and the perspectives of service providers and organisational leaders (SPOL) on this topic are rare. We conducted this study in the context of a community-based participatory research project in two cities in Ontario, Canada. This research was aimed at identifying the strengths and challenges of existing supports in enabling thriving following homelessness, followed by co-designing a novel intervention alongside persons with lived experience of homelessness (PWLEH) and SPOL. The current study presents the findings of interviews conducted in 2020-2021 with SPOL in organisations serving PWLEH. We interviewed 60 individuals including service providers (n = 38; 63.3%) and organisational leaders (n = 22; 36.7%) using semi-structured qualitative interviews. Interviews were conducted and recorded on Zoom to align with physical distancing protocols associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed abductively informed by the lenses of social justice and health equity. The essence of our findings is represented by a quote from a research participant: 'We stick people in a house and say okay, you're housed. The problem is solved'. This essence was expressed through five themes: (1) stuck in a system that prevents thriving, (2) substance use as an important coping strategy that prevents tenancy sustainment and thriving, (3) the critical importance of targeting community integration following homelessness, (4) incorporating peer expertise as imperative and (5) people need to be afforded options in selecting housing and services following homelessness. Our findings indicate that SPOL envision possibilities of thriving following homelessness yet are embedded within a system that often prevents them from supporting individuals who are leaving homelessness to do so. Research, practice and policy implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Anne Marshall
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brooke Phillips
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia Holmes
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric Todd
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - River Hill
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - George Panter
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Corinna Easton
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terry Landry
- Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Collins
- Salvation Army London Centre of Hope, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ashley O'Brien
- HIV and Aids Regional Services, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marlo Jastak
- Addiction and Mental Health Services Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFLA), Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Rebecca Goldszmidt
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chelsea Shanoff
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Suliman Aryobi
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shauna Perez
- Addiction and Mental Health Services Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFLA), Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abe Oudshoorn
- School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Marshall CA, Boland L, Westover LA, Goldszmidt R, Bengall J, Aryobi S, Isard R, Easton C, Gewurtz R. Effectiveness of employment-based interventions for persons experiencing homelessness: A systematic review. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:2142-2169. [PMID: 35748222 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Employment is frequently desired by persons who experience homelessness yet is often elusive. Little is known about the range and effectiveness of employment-based interventions evaluated in existing literature on key psychosocial outcomes including employment participation, mental well-being, housing tenure, community integration and substance use. To identify and synthesise existing studies, we conducted a systematic review of effectiveness using the methodology proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Following the removal of duplicates, we screened 13,398 titles and abstracts, and reviewed 79 studies at the full-text review stage using two independent raters. A total of 16 studies met criteria for inclusion in a narrative synthesis and were subjected to critical appraisal. The majority of studies were conducted in the US (n = 14; 87.5%) with other studies published in Canada (n = 1; 6.3%) and Australia (n = 1; 6.3%). Interventions evaluated in existing studies included combined substance use and vocational skills interventions (n = 7; 43.8%), supported employment (n = 6; 37.5%), and integrated supports including an employment component (n = 3; 18.8%). The effectiveness of these interventions on employment, mental well-being, housing tenure, community integration, and substance use is presented. Findings suggest that research evaluating employment interventions for persons who experience homelessness is in an early stage of development. Researchers and practitioners may consider collaborating with persons with lived experiences of homelessness and practitioners in co-designing and modifying existing approaches to target key outcomes more effectively. Policymakers may consider allocating resources to such initiatives to further the development of practice and research aimed at supporting persons who experience homelessness to secure and sustain employment during and following homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Anne Marshall
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonie Boland
- Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Peninsula Allied Health Centre, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Lee Ann Westover
- Teacher's College, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Rebecca Goldszmidt
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordana Bengall
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Suliman Aryobi
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Roxanne Isard
- Disciplinary Coordinator for the Faculty of Information & Media Studies & the Faculty of Education, Allyn & Betty Taylor Library, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Corinna Easton
- Social Justice in Mental Health Research Lab, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebecca Gewurtz
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Marshall CA, McKinley C, Costantini J, Murphy S, Lysaght R, Hart BP. 'The Big Island Model': Resident experiences of a novel permanent supportive housing model for responding to rural homelessness. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e5047-e5061. [PMID: 35880677 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Research on rural homelessness focuses primarily on describing the experiences and prevalence of homelessness in rural contexts, with little focus on intervention strategies. We conducted a case study of the 'Big Island Model' (BIM), a novel approach to providing housing and support to individuals experiencing homelessness that has been developed for, and reflects, a rural context. We interviewed 13 participants (n = 10 men; n = 3 women) supported by the BIM using mixed interviews including qualitative and quantitative components exploring experiences of living within this model and aspects of psychosocial well-being. Descriptive statistics were calculated to represent demographic data and participants' scores on standardised measures. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were conducted with threshold scores and population norms derived from existing literature to identify any differences between residents' median scores on each standardised scale and scores derived from published literature. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. On measures of meaningful activity, residents reported significantly lower levels of boredom (p < 0.01) and a greater degree of engagement in productivity (p < 0.01) compared with participants in other studies. Mental well-being was reported to be higher (p < 0.05) and drug use was significantly lower than a low-moderate range (p < 0.01). Community integration scores revealed significantly lower physical integration (p < 0.05) and significantly higher psychological integration than individuals who had transitioned to housing in another study (p < 0.001). Our analysis of qualitative interviews resulted in the identification of a central essence characterising residents' experiences: 'Becoming Through Belonging'. This essence was represented by four distinct themes: (1) the healing qualities of nature; (2) being meaningfully occupied; (3) living in a mutually supportive environment; and (4) this place is here to help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Anne Marshall
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Elborn College, Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Susanne Murphy
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rosemary Lysaght
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian P Hart
- Kate's Rest Foundation, Demorestville, Ontario, Canada
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Lal S, Elias S, Sieu V, Peredo R. Use of technology to provide mental health services to youth experiencing homelessness: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061313. [PMID: 36691185 PMCID: PMC9454054 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the importance to address mental health issues as early as possible, youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) often lack prompt and easy access to health services. Recently, there has been a surge of studies focusing on leveraging technology to improve access to mental health services for YEH; however, limited efforts have been made to synthesise this literature, which can have important implications for the planning of mental health service delivery. Thus, this scoping review aims to map and synthesise research on the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to provide mental health services and interventions to YEH. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A scoping review of the literature will be conducted, following Arksey and O'Malley's proposed methodology, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews and recent guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute. All peer-reviewed papers using ICTs as a means of intervention will be considered, as well as grey literature. Only documents in English or French will be included in the analysis. First, 10 electronic databases will be consulted. Next, all data will be extracted into Covidence. Then, two reviewers will independently conduct the screening and data extraction process, in the case of discrepancies, a third reviewer will be included. Finally, data will be synthesised according to our objectives. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required, as data will be collected from published literature. Findings will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed journals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Lal
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Youth Mental Health & Technology Lab, Innovation and Evaluation Hub, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sarah Elias
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Vida Sieu
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rossana Peredo
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Youth Mental Health & Technology Lab, Innovation and Evaluation Hub, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Ferreiro IC, Cuadra MAR, Serqueda FA, Abad JMH. Impact of Housing First on Psychiatric Symptoms, Substance Use, and Everyday Life Skills Among People Experiencing Homelessness. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2022; 60:46-55. [PMID: 35316121 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20220316-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The current unblinded, randomized controlled trial analyzed psychiatric symptoms, substance use, and life skills outcomes in participants after 21 months in the Housing First (HF) program. The HF group (intervention) comprised 46 participants and the treatment-as-usual (TAU) group (control) comprised 41 participants. Quantitative outcome measures were collected at baseline and 8 and 21 months. Primary outcomes were mental health and substance use. Secondary outcomes were everyday life skills. Descriptive and comparative analyses and linear regression models are presented. At 21 months, the HF group presented significantly better outcomes regarding alcohol and cannabis use than the TAU group. Moreover, the subgroup of HF participants with severe mental illness had significant improvements in psychotic symptoms, anxiety, depression, social relations, and cannabis use compared to TAU participants. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(x), xx-xx.].
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Flike K, Aronowitz T. Factors That Influence Quality of Life in People Experiencing Homelessness: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2022; 28:128-153. [PMID: 33478314 DOI: 10.1177/1078390320985286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging category of morbidity in research among people experiencing homelessness (PEH) is quality of life (QoL). The Commission on Social Determinants of Health (CSDH) framework was used to explain the relationship between the resulting factors and their impact on QoL among PEH. AIMS The purpose of this systematic mixed studies review was to explore the factors that are associated with QoL among homeless individuals. METHOD A systematic mixed studies review was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, and SocIndex databases. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies were included and synthesized employing results-based convergent synthesis design. RESULTS The initial search resulted in 757 studies with 55 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis revealed themes influencing QoL among PEH categorized by the CSDH determinants of structural, social cohesion and social capital, and intermediary determinants. Among these themes, higher social status, strong relationships, better reported physical and mental health, and a positive life outlook were associated with increased QoL. Social isolation, substance use, poorer life outlook, increased years spent homeless, and perceived quality of housing were associated with decreased QoL. Age, sex, and housing programs revealed inconsistent results on QoL. CONCLUSIONS While the factors presented in this review indicate some consistent relationships with QoL in PEH, this review has shown QoL among this population is complex and multifactorial. Future research should focus on relationships between the CSDH determinants, particularly the psychosocial factors and the QoL priorities defined by PEH, and how they may influence QoL among PEH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberlee Flike
- Kimberlee Flike, MSN, UMass Boston, College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Teri Aronowitz
- Teri Aronowitz, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, FAAN, UMass Boston, College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
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Compton P, St Marie B. Coexisting Substance Use Disorder and Chronic Pain During COVID-19. Pain Manag Nurs 2022; 23:17-25. [PMID: 34620549 PMCID: PMC8418911 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2021.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Compton
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4217.
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Defeyter MA, Stretesky PB, Long MA, Furey S, Reynolds C, Porteous D, Dodd A, Mann E, Kemp A, Fox J, McAnallen A, Gonçalves L. Mental Well-Being in UK Higher Education During Covid-19: Do Students Trust Universities and the Government? Front Public Health 2021; 9:646916. [PMID: 33981666 PMCID: PMC8107392 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.646916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper draws upon the concept of recreancy to examine the mental well-being of university students during the Covid-19 pandemic. Briefly, recreancy is loss of societal trust that results when institutional actors can no longer be counted on to perform their responsibilities. Our study of mental well-being and recreancy focuses on the role of universities and government regulators within the education sector. We surveyed 600 UK students attending 161 different public higher education providers in October 2020 during a time when many UK students were isolated in their residences and engaged in online learning. We assessed student well-being using the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (scored 7–35) and found the mean score to be 19.9 [95% confidence interval (CI) 19.6, 20.2]. This level of well-being indicates that a significant proportion of UK students face low levels of mental well-being. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis indicates that high recreancy—measured as a low trust in universities and the government—is associated with low levels of mental well-being across the student sample. While these findings are suggestive, they are also important and we suggest that government and university leaders should not only work to increase food and housing security during the Covid-19 pandemic, but also consider how to combat various sector trends that might intensify recreancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul B Stretesky
- Healthy Living Lab, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Long
- Department of Sociology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Sinéad Furey
- Ulster University Business School, Coleraine, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Reynolds
- Centre for Food Policy, City University, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Geography, Institute of Sustainable Food, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Debbie Porteous
- Healthy Living Lab, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Alyson Dodd
- Healthy Living Lab, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Mann
- Healthy Living Lab, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Kemp
- Student Union, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - James Fox
- Marketing Department, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lara Gonçalves
- Department of Sociology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
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Kerman N, Lem M, Witte M, Kim C, Rhoades H. A Multilevel Intervention Framework for Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness with Pets. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101869. [PMID: 33066290 PMCID: PMC7602009 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Approximately one in 10 people experiencing homelessness have pets. Despite pets having psychosocial benefits for their owners, pets can also present challenges for people experiencing homelessness related to meeting their basic needs and obtaining housing. This article proposes a framework of policy, public, and service interventions for improving the health and well-being of pet owners experiencing homelessness. At the policy level, the framework proposes an increase of pet-friendly emergency shelters, access to market rental housing and veterinary medicine, and the use of a Housing First approach. At the public level, educational interventions are needed to improve knowledge and reduce stigma about the relationship between homelessness and pet ownership. At the service delivery level, direct service providers can support pet owners experiencing homelessness by recognizing their strengths, connecting them to community services, being aware of the risks associated with pet loss, providing harm reduction strategies, documenting animals as emotional support animals, and engaging in advocacy. By targeting policies and service approaches that exacerbate the hardships faced by pet owners experiencing homelessness, the framework is a set of deliberate actions to better support this vulnerable group. Abstract Approximately one in 10 people experiencing homelessness have pets. Despite the psychosocial benefits derived from pet ownership, systemic and structural barriers can prevent this group from meeting their basic needs and exiting homelessness. A multilevel framework is proposed for improving the health and well-being of pet owners experiencing homelessness. Informed by a One Health approach, the framework identifies interventions at the policy, public, and direct service delivery levels. Policy interventions are proposed to increase the supply of pet-friendly emergency shelters, access to market rental housing and veterinary medicine, and the use of a Housing First approach. At the public level, educational interventions are needed to improve knowledge and reduce stigma about the relationship between homelessness and pet ownership. Direct service providers can support pet owners experiencing homelessness by recognizing their strengths, connecting them to community services, being aware of the risks associated with pet loss, providing harm reduction strategies, documenting animals as emotional support animals, and engaging in advocacy. By targeting policies and service approaches that exacerbate the hardships faced by pet owners experiencing homelessness, the framework is a set of deliberate actions to better support a group that is often overlooked or unaccommodated in efforts to end homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Kerman
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Michelle Lem
- Community Veterinary Outreach, Carp, ON K0A 1L0, Canada; (M.L.); (M.W.)
| | - Mike Witte
- Community Veterinary Outreach, Carp, ON K0A 1L0, Canada; (M.L.); (M.W.)
| | | | - Harmony Rhoades
- USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of South California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
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Marshall CA, Boland L, Westover LA, Isard R, Gutman SA. A systematic review of occupational therapy interventions in the transition from homelessness. Scand J Occup Ther 2020; 28:171-187. [PMID: 32476575 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2020.1764094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although systematic and scoping reviews have identified a range of interventions for persons experiencing homelessness, no known reviews have captured the range and quality of intervention studies aimed at supporting a transition from homelessness. OBJECTIVES To capture the range and quality of occupational therapy intervention studies aimed at supporting a transition to housing following homelessness. METHOD Using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines, we conducted a systematic review including a critical appraisal and narrative synthesis of experimental studies. RESULTS Eleven studies were included. Critical appraisal scores ranged from 33.3 to 88.9 of a possible score of 100 (Mdn = 62.5; IQR = 33.4). The majority of studies evaluated interventions for the development of life skills (n = 9; 81.8%), and all were conducted in the USA. Several of the included studies were exploratory evaluation and feasibility studies, and all were quasi-experimental in design. Only three studies (27.2%) incorporated a control group. Intervention strategies included (1) integrated group and individual life skills interventions (n = 6); (2) group-based life skills interventions (n = 3); and (3) psychosocial and consultative interventions (n = 2). CONCLUSIONS Research evaluating occupational therapy interventions aimed at supporting homeless individuals as they transition to housing is in an early stage of development. SIGNIFICANCE Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Anne Marshall
- Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Elborn College, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Leonie Boland
- Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Peninsula Allied Health Centre, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Roxanne Isard
- Faculty of Information & Media Studies & the Faculty of Social Sciences, Allyn & Betty Taylor Library, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sharon A Gutman
- Programs in Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Marshall CA, Boland L, Westover LA, Wickett S, Roy L, Mace J, Gewurtz R, Barbic S, Kirsh B. Occupational experiences of homelessness: A systematic review and meta-aggregation. Scand J Occup Ther 2019; 27:394-407. [DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2019.1689292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Anne Marshall
- Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Elborn College, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Leonie Boland
- Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Peninsula Allied Health Centre, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Sarah Wickett
- Bracken Health Sciences Library, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Laurence Roy
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Jenni Mace
- Department of Occupational Science and Therapy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca Gewurtz
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Skye Barbic
- Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bonnie Kirsh
- Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Hooker SA, Masters KS, Vagnini KM, Rush CL. Engaging in personally meaningful activities is associated with meaning salience and psychological well-being. JOURNAL OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/17439760.2019.1651895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A. Hooker
- Department of Psychology & Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, University of Colorado , Denver, USA
- HealthPartners Institute , Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kevin S. Masters
- Department of Psychology & Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, University of Colorado , Denver, USA
| | - Kaitlyn M. Vagnini
- Department of Psychology & Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, University of Colorado , Denver, USA
| | - Christina L. Rush
- Department of Psychology & Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, University of Colorado , Denver, USA
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