When it comes to the different experiences of homelessness, women have greater mental health concerns, greater safety concerns, higher rates of diagnosed mental health issues. But the list of problems don’t just stop there.
According to a 2020 study by BMC Public Health, it was determined that women also suffer from suicidal thoughts and attempts, as well as adverse childhood trauma.
The fact of the matter is that women face different challenges as compared to homeless men. Women are predominately vulnerable to victimization, sexual assault, and physical violence.
Here are the unique challenges faced by women:
1. Prostitution & sex crimes
For women, it’s often necessary to take up sex crimes in exchange for a safe place to sleep. There have also been high reports of sexual assault in showers and public restrooms.
2. Access to menstrual products is limited.
These sort of products are always useful to shelters as tampons and pads can cost anywhere from $5 to $10.
3. Lack of maternal health care plans
Many unintended pregnancies happen in shelters and there is a lack of care extended to homeless women
4. Lack of safety and security
Women fleeing abusive relationships, sometimes with their children in tow often struggle to find somewhere safe to sleep, even in shelters.
5. Extreme Depression
Mental health issues is a rampant challenge amongst homeless women and most of it goes untreated.
6. Gender inequality in jobs
It is a fact that gender disparity exists within our nation. With many homeless women lacking education, it is even harder for these women to attain job stability.
7. Deteriorating health
Due to the lack of preventative care such as mammograms, prenatal care, and other wellness care, homeless women have a much higher rate of untreated health issues.
The challenges for these women are vast and vital, and these are only a few. To help these underprivileged women in need you can
- Donate menstrual health products
- Volunteer time, money, or resources to homeless shelters and other women’s organizations
- Donate to job training programs
- Sponsor a woman for education