Mainstream psychiatry conceptualizes people who are homeless and
mentally ill as distinct from other homeless persons because it is thought
that their status stems from their mental disorder and the poor
implementation of deinstitutionalization. The authors believe this
dichotomy is illusory. They present data indicating that recent
socioeconomic and political shifts contributed greatly to homelessness
among all groups, regardless of mental illness; that those with and without
mental illness have similar biographical and demographic profiles; that
high levels of mental distress are common to all homeless persons; and that
few mentally ill homeless persons require involuntary hospitalization. This
perspective suggests novel responses that de-emphasize clinical solutions
and focus on empowerment, consumerism, entitlement, community-level
interventions, and closer alliances with other advocates for the
homeless.Abstract Teaser