Case Study: Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness Through Trauma-Informed Support

For years, Alex (name changed) lived within what felt like a revolving door of homelessness. Each time progress was made, unaddressed trauma, poor mental health, and a lack of long-term support would pull him back into the same cycle. Without access to the right mental health care, his behaviours escalated, leaving him trapped in a pattern that felt impossible to escape.

When Alex first engaged with LilyAnne’s Wellbeing, he carried the weight of hopelessness, depression, and rejection. His family had distanced themselves due to his past choices, and he often spoke of not wanting to be here at all. The cycle of rough sleeping and exclusion seemed endless.

Our approach was slow and steady. We met him where he was, built trust through continued support, and provided small volunteering opportunities that gave him a renewed sense of purpose. Over time, we began working with him to address the childhood traumas that had fuelled his struggles. With this support, Alex was finally able to imagine a different future for himself.

After years on the streets, Alex secured stable housing. Yet being housed was only the beginning. The real work started once survival mode ended. Living with the memories of what he had endured, he faced intense challenges adjusting to life indoors. Simple skills like budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining a tenancy had been lost after so long on the streets. Without the right guidance, this stage is often when people relapse or lose their accommodation again.

Through wraparound support, Alex learned these vital life skills while continuing to receive mental health support and relapse prevention guidance. Step by step, he grew more confident. He reconnected with his family for the first time in years, repaired relationships, and began to rebuild trust in himself and others. With the skills and support he gained, Alex was able to take on work opportunities, rebuild self-worth, and see a future he once thought was impossible.

Alex’s story is a reminder that homelessness is never simply about housing. The traumas that lead to homelessness must be addressed to ensure recovery is lasting. Every homeless death is preventable with the right support. With patience, understanding, and holistic care, lives can be not only saved, but truly transformed.