People experiencing homelessness referred to general adult psychiatry teams in Dublin, Ireland.

AIMS AND METHOD: This study aimed to explore the demand for mental health services among people experiencing homelessness in multiple settings. Participants included all persons referred to nine community mental health teams (CMHTs), three in-patient psychiatric units and one emergency department in Dublin, Ireland, over 1 year (1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023). Key aspects of service provision were examined, including population characteristics, relevant history, referral outcomes and alternative care pathways.

RESULTS

There were 401 referrals to all services in the study period, the majority males. Half of those admitted acutely and one-quarter of out-patient referrals had a diagnosis of a psychotic illness. There were high rates of comorbid substance and alcohol use in presentations across all settings.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: High rates of mental illness and comorbid vulnerabilities were found. Appropriately addressing the needs of this population will require increased resourcing of CMHTs, as well as the provision of assertive outreach.