Transitions into shelter or transitional housing can be deeply disruptive for children and youth. Alongside changes in physical space, young people are often navigating loss, uncertainty, and emotional overwhelm. As part of the Growing Up Safe partnership, we recently spoke with Jenny-Lee Brunet, a child and family therapist, about how housing transitions impact youth and what helps support them during this challenging time
Feeling Unsettled
One of the most significant challenges youth face during housing transitions is the loss of familiarity. Many miss their home, their school, and the routines that once shaped their daily lives. School transitions, in particular, can be especially difficult. Leaving behind friends and trusted adults often brings feelings of sadness, anxiety, and grief. Youth may worry about fitting in, making new friends, or being judged if peers learn they are living in a shelter. These fears are often intensified by a lack of control, as young people have little say in the decisions that affect where they live or attend school.
The loss youth experience extends beyond friendships. Many also grieve changes in their family unit, community connections, and activities they once enjoyed. Even when a previous home environment may not have been safe or stable, it can still feel familiar and predictable to a child. Adjusting to a new environment; shared spaces, new rules, and unfamiliar surroundings takes time and can contribute to emotional and behavioural changes.
These transitions can have a noticeable impact on mental health. Sadness and anxiety are common, though they may show up as anger, withdrawal, or acting out. Caregivers often express concern when they see behaviours that feel new or uncharacteristic for their child. Normalizing these reactions is an important part of the work, helping families understand that youth are responding to stress, loss, and uncertainty rather than intentionally misbehaving.
Caregiver Wellbeing Matters
Caregiver stress also plays a significant role in how youth cope during transitions. Children are highly attuned to their caregivers’ emotions, even when adults try to shield them. Some youth take on added responsibility within the family, particularly older siblings who may feel pressure to protect or support others. Helping caregivers recognize this dynamic and find ways to manage their own stress can ease the emotional load for everyone.
Connection Counts
Connection is a powerful protective factor during times of change. Many youth seek increased physical or emotional closeness with caregivers, especially after experiencing separation or loss. Simple acts; being present, offering reassurance, maintaining proximity, and validating feelings can help restore a sense of safety. Supportive adults, whether caregivers, shelter staff, or therapists, also play an important role by listening, empathizing, and providing consistent care.
Steps Toward Stability
Over time, signs of adjustment begin to emerge. Youth may engage more in activities, spend time in shared spaces, or show greater openness with trusted adults. They may express excitement about new friendships or feel more comfortable exploring their surroundings. These small shifts signal growing safety, trust, and confidence in a new environment.
Above all, supporting youth through housing transitions requires patience, compassion, and a trauma-informed approach. Change does not happen overnight, but with time, connection, and understanding, young people can begin to rebuild a sense of stability and belonging as they move forward.