The Silent Epidemic: How Evictions Impact Public Health and What Can Be Done

Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, August 22nd 2025 at 14:09 GMT by WSB-TV
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For years, eviction has been treated as a legal matter, a consequence of unpaid rent handled within the court system. However, groundbreaking research is revealing a stark truth: evictions are not just housing instability; they’re a significant public health crisis with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and entire communities. A recent study highlighted by WSB-TV in Atlanta, alongside national data, paints a disturbing picture of how eviction contributes to poorer health outcomes, increased stress, and ultimately, perpetuates cycles of poverty.

The core finding is simple: evictions are a social determinant of health, just like access to nutritious food or clean water. When families are forcibly removed from their homes, the ripple effects extend far beyond simply losing shelter. Children experience disrupted schooling, leading to learning loss and decreased future opportunities. Adults face job instability due to difficulty maintaining consistent work schedules and the stigma associated with eviction records. The stress of navigating legal proceedings, finding new housing, and dealing with the emotional trauma of displacement takes a severe toll on mental health, exacerbating existing conditions or triggering new ones.

The research goes beyond simply identifying correlation; it’s beginning to establish causation. Studies have linked evictions to increased rates of emergency room visits, hospitalizations for respiratory illnesses (particularly in children), and chronic diseases like asthma and diabetes. The instability created by eviction disrupts access to healthcare services, making preventative care more difficult and leading to delayed treatment when problems arise. Furthermore, the trauma associated with eviction can weaken immune systems, making individuals more susceptible to illness.

The problem isn't confined to specific demographics. While low-income families are disproportionately affected, evictions impact people across all income levels and racial backgrounds. However, systemic inequalities mean that communities of color often bear a heavier burden. Historical discriminatory housing practices, coupled with ongoing economic disparities, contribute to higher eviction rates in these areas, further exacerbating health inequities.

The WSB-TV report specifically focuses on Atlanta’s experience, highlighting the city's efforts to address this crisis through proactive eviction prevention programs. These initiatives are moving away from a reactive approach – dealing with evictions after they occur – and towards a preventative model that aims to keep families in their homes. This includes providing emergency rental assistance, legal aid for tenants facing eviction proceedings, and mediation services to facilitate communication between landlords and renters.

The success of these programs hinges on several key factors. Firstly, early intervention is crucial. Identifying families at risk of eviction before they receive a formal notice allows for targeted support and prevents the situation from escalating. Secondly, legal representation for tenants is vital. Many individuals facing eviction are unaware of their rights or lack the resources to navigate the complex legal system. Providing free or low-cost legal aid levels the playing field and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. Thirdly, addressing the root causes of housing instability – poverty, unemployment, lack of affordable childcare – is essential for long-term solutions.

The Atlanta model isn't unique; cities across the country are experimenting with various eviction prevention strategies. Some are implementing “right to counsel” laws that guarantee legal representation for tenants in eviction cases. Others are establishing tenant resource centers offering a range of services, from financial literacy workshops to housing counseling. Still others are exploring innovative approaches like rental registry programs and landlord incentive programs designed to encourage responsible property management practices.

However, scaling these solutions requires significant investment and systemic change. The current legal framework often favors landlords, making it difficult for tenants to fight eviction proceedings even when they have legitimate defenses. Policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels are needed to create a more equitable housing system that prioritizes tenant protections and promotes stability.

The research clearly demonstrates that addressing the public health consequences of eviction requires a collaborative effort involving policymakers, healthcare providers, legal professionals, community organizations, and landlords. It’s no longer sufficient to view eviction as simply a landlord-tenant dispute; it must be recognized as a critical public health issue demanding urgent attention and comprehensive solutions. By investing in eviction prevention programs and addressing the underlying causes of housing instability, we can not only improve individual lives but also build healthier, more resilient communities for all. The silent epidemic of eviction is finally being brought to light, and with increased awareness comes the potential for meaningful change.

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The Silent Epidemic: How Evictions Impact Public Health and What Can Be Done