CAMH, Dr. David Gratzer: Physician and Educator at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Quick Takes: A podcast by physicians, for physicians

newmedia@camh.ca (Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos, Dr. David Gratzer: Physician and Educator at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH))

  • Chronic homelessness with Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos

Chronic homelessness with Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos

Wednesday 28th February 2024

Dr. David Gratzer and Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos discuss chronic homelessness, mental health challenges, and innovative solutions like Housing First.
25 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Inspiring
Hopeful
Educational

About this podcast

Quick Takes: A podcast by physicians, for physicians
Author:
CAMH, Dr. David Gratzer: Physician and Educator at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Mindful Recovery
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
50 (View all)
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Understanding Chronic Homelessness: Insights from Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos

Episode Overview

  • Chronic homelessness is on the rise across North America.
  • Many chronically homeless individuals face severe addiction and trauma.
  • Low-barrier access to services is crucial for effective intervention.
  • The Housing First model has shown significant success in reducing homelessness.
  • Political and institutional backlash against Housing First remains a challenge.
They want providers that can see them as a friend.
What happens when the intersection of mental health and chronic homelessness is explored by two leading experts? In this episode of Quick Takes, Dr. David Gratzer sits down with Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos to tackle the complex and often heart-wrenching issue of chronic homelessness across North America. Dr. Stergiopoulos, an internationally recognised expert and former Physician-in-Chief at CAMH, shares her extensive experience working with this vulnerable population. From her early days at St.
Michael's Hospital to her groundbreaking research on Housing First, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the conversation. You'll hear gripping stories from the front lines, like that of John, a man who went from living in an abandoned garage to finding stable housing and support. Dr. Stergiopoulos discusses the evolving challenges faced by those who are chronically homeless, including the rising prevalence of addiction and trauma.
She emphasises the importance of low-barrier access to services and the need for providers to work from a trauma-informed perspective. The episode also delves into the controversial Housing First model, which prioritises providing permanent housing before addressing other issues like addiction or mental health. Dr. Stergiopoulos highlights the success of this approach in places like Finland and within the U.S. veteran sector, while also addressing the political and institutional backlash it has faced.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of chronic homelessness and the innovative solutions being tested to address it. Whether you're a healthcare provider, policymaker, or simply someone who cares about social issues, you'll find valuable insights and inspiration in this conversation. Why not give it a listen? You might just find yourself rethinking what you thought you knew about homelessness and mental health.