Health Problems and Concerns
Homeless youth are at risk of many serious health problems when they find themselves on the streets. They are found to be ill more then other teens, because of being exposed to so many diseases outdoors in the city. Here are some problems youth may find themselves with when becoming homeless:
- Mental health problems
- Substance abuse problems
- Bronchitis and pneumonia
- Problems caused by being outdoors
- Wound and skin infections
You must be thinking: Wow! That's a lot of health problems! But sadly, the list is no where near complete... there are many other health issues but the list above is just a sample of the various health problems homeless youth are at risk of.
Many teens are at risk of AIDS, being unprotected and vulnerable.
Why do youth on the streets become ill so much easier? Well sicknesses that are rare could become a threat and since the youth has never experienced that sickness before they may not be able to fight it off.
With so many health issues, a homeless youth has a lower chance of living long, and having a fulfilling, healthy life. But with the right healthcare, medical assistance and medical information, homeless youth can have a stronger chance of living long!