The Fidelis Care Blog

Mental Illness Awareness Week is October 6 -12, 2024, with World Mental Health Day falling on October 10. In observance, HELP USA Senior Vice President of Development and Communications Samantha Conlan shared the below post on how her organization builds connections among formerly homeless adults. HELP USA is a 2024 Fidelis Care behavioral health program grant recipient.

HELP USA, a national homeless services provider, recognizes the importance of mental health year-round for our clients – those experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness. Mental Illness Awareness Week offers an opportunity to highlight just one of the ways HELP is partnering with organizations like Fidelis Care to combat the effects of mental health concerns among the more than 30,000 people we serve annually.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five people experiencing homelessness (21.1%) has a serious mental health condition, and less than half of adults who need treatment receive it.

HELP USA understands that there’s often a strong link between homelessness and health. Mental health challenges threaten housing security, while unstable living situations make existing mental health issues worse.

That’s where our Connected Community Initiative comes in.

The Connected Community Initiative identifies individuals at the highest risk for poor health outcomes in permanent supportive housing. It provides Critical Time Intervention—an intensive approach that ensures consistent contact with trained clinicians and social workers. It also offers opportunities for positive social interactions with peers to combat depression, isolation, and low self-esteem. This proactive approach allows us to catch potential issues early and offer vital resources that improve health outcomes, supporting our clients on their journey to stability.

In partnership with Fidelis Care, HELP USA is tackling the unique health challenges our clients face—many of whom deal with mental and physical health issues worsened by unstable living conditions and limited access to care. “Fidelis Fridays” will be hosted monthly, bringing together residents at HELP ONE, a supportive housing complex in Brooklyn, NY, to enjoy live music performances, art making, conversation, and refreshments.

Part of the struggle that our HELP ONE clients face is transitioning from a life on the streets or in shelters to living in a permanent home. They aren’t used to the social structures; they are uncomfortable alone after many years in group settings. Fidelis Fridays will help the care team provide safe, accessible spaces for people to connect, share lived experiences, and find their footing, directly contributing to improved mental health and well-being.

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, call 988 for 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help while experiencing mental health-related distress. Fidelis Care members also have access to several other behavioral health resources.