The Effects of Unstable Housing on Children

We know the immediate stress and impact unstable housing can have on families. But a recent study from the American Academy of Pediatrics found it can also impact the long-term health of children.

The study followed three groups of young children throughout adolescence: those with stable housing; those with moderate housing insecurity (i.e. periods of insecurity along with periods of security); and those who experienced high levels of housing insecurity throughout early childhood, but found stability later on.

The study found that both insecure groups went on to experience higher levels of depression, and the highly insecure group also reported higher levels of anxiety.

Hidden Trauma

The health impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are well-documented and include elevated risk for health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and more. The CDC also recognizes housing insecurity as a type of ACE.

Shelter is among our most basic needs—physical shelter, of course, but also emotional shelter. Housing insecurity affects both: not knowing where you are going to be staying from one day, week, or month to the next, but also witnessing the impact this has on caregivers and those we rely on for stability and security.

Stability Now & Later

At BCM Georgia, we work to get ahead of experiences like this by helping families remain in their homes and children attending the same schools, while they navigate challenging circumstances. For those who don’t currently have stable housing, we help them access it as quickly as possible and equip them with the tools and resources they need to stay there.

Shelter is important, but one thing this study demonstrates is that a “home” is much more than that. Our programs help build strong foundations so families and children can experience stability in the way they live, the way they feel, and the way they grow.