HIV & YOUTH HOMELESSNESS: HOUSING AS HEALTH CARE

Overview

Homeless and unstably housed youth are particularly vulnerable to contracting HIV.1 Facing the immediacy of basic needs and with few resources at their disposal, young people are often dependent on survival strategies that place them at increased risk such as substance abuse and survival sex – trading sex for food, money, or a place to sleep.2 Without access to health care, moreover, these youth are often unaware of their HIV status or unable to adhere to strict antiviral drug treatment plans.3

Existing literature on the topic suggests that addressing housing instability for homeless youth would reduce the risks of contracting HIV by providing an environment to attend to health care needs, improve mental and physical health, and decrease engagement in HIV-risk behaviors.4 Additionally, stable housing positively impacts access to medical care, treatment, and continuity of care for people currently living with HIV/AIDS.5 Thus, an expansion of safe, affordable housing could lead to decreased HIV infection and improved health among this population of vulnerable young adults.

Despite increased understanding of the virus among the broader population, individuals living with HIV continue to face discrimination in housing and employment, as well as in access to health services and social and community programs.6 These realities have substantial implications for youth experiencing homelessness as perceived stigma is often linked to low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and depression.7

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