Abstract
The aim of the study was to explore the lived experiences of formerly homeless adults now in secure housing, main research interests focused on how being homeless impacted their mental health. This was a qualitative study included three participants, one female and two male and conducted semi structured interviews to gain detailed insight into the phenomenon of homelessness. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used with raw data interpreted by the researcher to create themes. The five superordinate themes which emerged were, Mental Health Issues, Feelings of Homelessness, Support Networks, Survival Strategies and Impact of Homelessness. Findings identified common themes of mental health issues occurring throughout homelessness and in the aftermath even years later…. harrowing lived experiences of fear, shame and isolation with many participants let down by close networks and services although shared an exhilarating indomitability to survive homelessness. Future research is needed within Ireland and on a wider scale.
