Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Pavilion Ballroom (Hilton Portland)
Examination of suicide attempts and completions among people experiencing homelessness presents a host of challenges (e.g., difficulties with population tracking and identification), leading to a scarcity of reliable information regarding this matter. However, recent findings estimate suicide rates amongst the homeless population as significantly higher (e.g., 112.5 per 100,000) than that of the US general population (12.5 per 100,000), identifying homeless individuals as a population of incredibly high risk. Amongst the homeless, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and ethnic minorities represent groups of elevated need. When specifically considering individuals who have served in the military, it is estimated that 22 veterans commit suicide per day, contributing to approximately 21% of the total U.S. suicide rate (Kemp & Bossarte, 2012). While much attention has been placed on homelessness within veterans, leading to a significant decrease in the rates of veteran homelessness (33%), around 50,000 veterans remain homeless every night (HUD, 2014). This presentation will examine the unique factors influencing risk for suicide within the homeless population, with specific consideration of the intersectionality present among people experiencing homelessness. These aspects will be assessed through the Cultural Assessment of Risk for Suicide (CARS), and the Suicide Meanings Screener (Mayday) measures. Risk intervention strategies for diverse LGBTQ, ethnic minority, and veteran homeless individuals informed by results of this community-academic collaborative will be presented. Upon completion, audience members should better understand unique factors contributing to the alarming rates of suicide within the homeless population, be able to meaningfully discuss the challenges present in assessing suicide rates among this population, and recognize the potential benefits associated with addressing this relevant issue across disciplines.