Mental ill-health amongst homeless youth is about ten times the rate of that found in normal adolescents, and is both a cause and a consequence of homelessness. Amongst homeless youth who suffer depression, symptoms can differ from those experienced by adults. Also, the young person may not have the experience to recognise their feelings as depression.
Common symptoms are low motivation, boredom, daytime sleepiness and increased eating.
Sufferers may be aggressive and abusive. They may inflict harm upon themselves, and may be involved with drugs. These acts can stem from increasing self-hatred and depression, unresolved anger, aggression and powerlessness, causing tension and loss of control. Mutilation relieves the tension and allows some control to be regained over the emotions. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness follow, further lowering self-esteem.