Building Social Support into Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Trajectories: Insights from a Longitudinal Qualitative and Ethnographic Study with Young People Experiencing Unstable Housing and Homelessness

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This study explores the opportunities and challenges of fostering social support across street-involved young people’s mental health and substance use (MHSU) treatment trajectories. We conducted in-depth interviews with youth and their providers between 2017 and 2021. Findings demonstrate that family and others could be crucial catalysts for initiating and reengaging in MHSU treatment among youth. However, many reported not receiving enough assistance from service providers in navigating complex social relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. Our findings underscore the need for a more holistic approach to MHSU treatment that encircles the young person and their social networks, including caregivers.