The Impact of Invisible Disabilities in Housing: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Autism and More Megan Watson, PhD Licensed Psychologist The Wellness Center & Affiliates 1919 S. 40 th Street, Suite 111

Purpose of this Presentation To provide cultural and disability awareness for housing representatives, human services agents, and case workers. To combat the stigma of mental illness. To better understand our role in empowering and supporting those with mental illness.

Why this Matters This is truly a community problem. Without safe housing those with mental illness end up on the streets, in state-run hospitals and in prison/jail. According to the HUD report nearly 40% of the homeless are single adults with severe mental illness. In ,800 people with mental illnesses were incarcerated. Most mental illness can be treated and most people with mental illness can be productive members of our community. Because it’s the law.

The History of Mental Illness & Housing The “deinstitutionalization” movement started in the 60’s and became more popular in the 70’s and 80’s. Where did they go: homeless, moving among the home of family & friends, group homes, in and out of hospitals, nursing homes. Federal legislation that allows public housing to be designated “elderly only” has limited options.

Supported Housing is the Trend Costs less money for the tax payers. Fewer hospitalizations, less incarcerations, less community resources, fewer police interventions. Results in better quality of living for those with mental illness. Results in a healthier community. The power of autonomy and choice.

Problems with Supported Housing Resources and support are not always available or adequate. We need advocates (that’s you!) The “not in my backyard” mentality. Discrimination. Being able to see past the poor rental/credit history. Lack of understanding of what is required.

Understanding the intersection between mental illness and housing How it is decided that someone can live in the community. How mental illness affects where we live. How where we live affects our mental health. Understanding and supporting unseen disabilities. How to support those with mental illness.

Is Community Living Appropriate? Is the person stabilized. Have they met treatment goals in a more restrictive environment. Are they are danger to themselves or anyone else. Do they have the adequate supports around them. Can they be reasonably accommodated. Times that may be more difficult: Just coming out of the hospital During medication changes Anniversary dates or season changes

PTSD Trauma defined Symptoms that may affect and be affected by housing: Agitation, low frustration tolerance, fear of others/paranoid, fear of closed spaces, intolerance of noises or smells, dissociation, confusion, lost time, angry outbursts.

The Anxiety Disorders Anxiety defined. Symptoms that affect and may be affected by housing: Fear reactions, low frustration tolerance, panic attacks, feeling unstable, physical complaints, easily agitated, forgetful or absent minded.

Depression Depression defined: Symptoms that may affect and be affected by housing: Isolation, pessimism, loneliness, negativity, paranoia, agitation, trouble in relationships.

Bipolar Disorders Bipolar Disorder defined. Symptoms that may affect and be affected by housing: Depending on the phase. Impulsive, easily agitated, destructive, poor decision making,

The Psychotic Disorders The Psychotic Disorders defined. Symptoms that may affect and be affected by housing: Paranoia, fearful, delusional, not connected with reality, easily agitated, confused.

The Cognitive Disorders Cognitive deficits defined: Symptoms that may affect and be affected by housing: Trouble understanding and connecting with others, fear of social situations, poor judgment and insight, poor impulse control, anger, inability to sustain social contact, difficulty with change, intolerance of others.

Cultural Issues Cultural issues defined. Cultural aspects that may affect and be affected by housing: Language barriers, traditions, lack of understanding of rules/laws, what looks like paranoia and noncompliance, limited access to resources, different worldview.

Case Example The Torture Survivor who cannot stand walls.

What can I do to help? Mutual trust and respect Empathize and educate yourself Check your own biases and preconceived notions Communication and Feedback Loop Ask questions. Show yourself to be an understanding and knowledgeable person. Ask for help. If needed work closely with other providers

Resources Linhorst, D. M. (2006). Empowering People with Severe Mental Illness: A Practical Guide. Autism Speaks Family Services Housing and Residential Supports Tool Kit. Found on the internet. National Alliance on Mental Illness. Housing Tool Kit