Housing is a fundamental human right that is denied to millions of people. A 2005 worldwide study found that more than 1.5 billion people lack access to "adequate" housing. Since various nations define "homelessness" differently, it is difficult to pinpoint more exact statistics. Since tracking the problem is costly, updated records are uncommon. In any case, we are aware that homelessness is a significant global issue. Many nations have observed an upsurge in rates in recent years. Following are ten primary reasons of homelessness:
stagnant pay
Wages have not increased in tandem with the expense of living. Since 1970, the minimum wage in the US has increased by almost 350%. Over 480% more money has been added to the Consumer Price Index. This makes it difficult to pay for regular living expenditures, much alone put money aside for emergencies or future homeownership. A person's salary might be completely consumed by an unforeseen bill if they are unable to preserve money. Low salaries keep individuals impoverished and increase their risk of homelessness globally.
Joblessness
Unemployment is a major factor in homelessness, but poor salaries also play a role. There are a variety of causes for unemployment, and some nations have greater rates than others. A person may quickly become homeless after being jobless for a while. According to research, the majority of homeless persons want to work but encounter challenges such not having a permanent location.
Insufficient availability of cheap homes
Costly housing is a worldwide problem. Ninety percent of the 200 cities surveyed in a worldwide assessment by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy were deemed to be expensive. The rationale for this was that median income was less than three times higher than average property prices. There are fewer alternatives available to individuals in the absence of cheap housing. Finding home in a safe neighborhood or close to one's place of employment becomes more difficult.
Insufficiently cheap healthcare
Despite the high cost of healthcare, many individuals lack insurance or have inadequate coverage. This entails having to struggle to pay for rent, food, and utilities while having to spend a lot of money on healthcare. It may also imply skipping out on regular examinations and treatments, which might eventually result in greater medical expenses. A single, severe accident or injury might cause a person or family to become homeless.
Lack of resources
Poverty is one of the main contributing factors to homelessness worldwide. Poverty is exacerbated by stagnant earnings, expensive housing and healthcare expenditures, and unemployment. A person's or family's risk is significantly increased when they are unable to pay for necessities like food, shelter, education, and other things. Governments and NGOs must address poverty in order to successfully combat homelessness.
Absence of resources for addiction and mental health treatment
There is no doubt about the reciprocal relationship between addiction, homelessness, and mental health. About 30% of those who are "chronically homeless" in the US suffer from mental health issues. According to data from the National Coalition for the Homeless in 2017, 38% of those who are homeless are alcohol dependent. 26% are dependent on other drugs. Addiction or mental illness increases a person's risk of homelessness and makes it more difficult to get long-term accommodation. Addiction problems and mental health disorders are often made worse by a lack of secure housing. It is quite difficult for someone to stop the pattern without therapeutic services.
Inequality of race
Racial minorities are more likely than White people to be homeless in the United States. Black Americans have a threefold higher risk of homelessness, according to studies from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development and the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Other minorities who are disproportionately impacted include Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Native Hawaiians. The causes stem from racial injustices, including housing discrimination and imprisonment.
domestic abuse
The most susceptible groups to homelessness brought on by violence are women and children. Without a strategy, individuals will leave their homes to avoid domestic abuse. They can wind up living on the streets, in automobiles, or in shelters if they don't have somewhere to stay. Domestic violence takes a toll on victims, even those who choose to remain, increasing their risk of becoming homeless in the future. This is due to the fact that trauma often causes mental health problems and drug misuse.
Family discord
Family strife is often associated with domestic abuse and may also result in homelessness. Particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, this is accurate. It's dangerous to come out. Families have the power to eject the offender or create a harmful situation at home. Every year, 1.6 million young LGBTQ+ persons become homeless, according to the True Colors Fund. Additionally, there is a higher chance of homelessness among this group when they are younger.
Systemic shortcomings
We cannot overlook the structural flaws, even when individual or family situations might lead to homelessness. When society fails to recognize and assist those who are at danger of losing their homes, homelessness results. It is fairly uncommon for sectors such as child welfare, healthcare, and penal services to have failures. Homelessness rates are also influenced by a society's inability to resolve racial disparities, raise wages, and provide affordable housing.
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