Objective: This study aimed to screen the Axis I disorders and related factors among homeless people in Istanbul. Method: 167 homeless people who were taken under protection by the Municipality of Istanbul for three days during the heavy snow in 2005 and 2006 winter. They were assessed with sociodemographic form, MINI (5.0), a scale prepared for cognitive and social functions. Results: The most frequent Axis I disorder was psychotic disorder- current (40 %), psychotic disorder-previous (31 %), alcohol use disorder (29 %). Current and previous major depression was significantly higher among non-chronic homeless than chronic ones (p=0.01, p= 0.002, respectively). Current psychotic disorder was significantly more prevalent among chronic homeless (p=0.008). Current psychosis was related with deterioration in cognitive and social functioning. Discussion: Psychopathology among homeless people in our society is similar with western society. These mentally ill homeless people deserve treatment, special attention due to protection, rehabilitation and mental health support.
Key words: Homelessness, psychiatric disorders, comorbidity
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