Understanding the Intersection of Homelessness and Justice Involvement: Enhancing Veteran Suicide Prevention Through VA Programming

Abstract

Background: Veterans with a history of homelessness and reviews existing programing and initiatives within such justice involvement are at greater risk for mental health services to detect risk for suicide and connect these veterans sequelae, including suicide. to appropriate evidence-based mental health care. Observations: A bidirectional relationship exists between Conclusions: The VA currently has several programs focused criminal justice involvement and housing instability (ie, the on enhancing care for homeless and justice-involved veterans, institutional circuit). Homelessness and justice involvement many of which currently incorporate suicide prevention often represent a vicious cycle that is difficult to escape. initiatives. Understanding of factors that may impact health The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has a number service delivery of suicide risk assessment and intervention of programs focused on connecting homeless and justice- may be beneficial in order to enhance veteran suicide involved veterans to health and social services. This paper prevention efforts.