How Addiction and Mental Illness Inflate the Homeless Problem
"Everyone has the right to an adequate standard of living... and housing," states Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This principle aligns with the missions of various organizations and is consistent with American law. However, the reality is that each year, a significant number of Americans, ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 million, find themselves sleeping in shelters, transitional housing, or public places not intended for human habitation. In California alone, there are currently over 171,500 homeless individuals as of 2022.
Unfortunately, stereotypes associated with homelessness perpetuate negative attitudes towards this group, often leading to misconceptions that all unhoused individuals are simply unsuccessful and lack a strong work ethic. These stereotypes hinder progress and discourage better futures for the homeless population. It is essential to recognize that while employment can contribute to stable housing, it does not guarantee it. Approximately 50 percent of people experiencing homelessness are employed. The high cost of renting further exacerbates the issue. For instance, the average income of an American in California is $33,719, while the average home price in the state is $746,055. This contrast reveals that 10 to 20 million Americans lose their homes annually.
Furthermore, C.B.S. News declares homes are unaffordable in “99 percent of the nation” for an average American, while mortgage rates grew to 7 percent, and the average interest rate was up 7.19 percent during 2023. Claro Duany, a 70-year-old man from Illinois, shared his experience of homelessness with the New York Times, explaining that “by the time [his mother] passed, [his housing] interest had accumulated, and it was $46,000. That, [he] didn’t have.”
Addiction, which medical professionals consider a mental illness, has an overwhelming correlation with homelessness. Research from The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration supports the conclusion that approximately 38 percent of homeless people abuse alcohol, and 26 percent abuse drugs. Heroin, prescription opioids, and methamphetamine are the most commonly used drugs among the homeless population. These substances often become coping mechanisms for the overwhelming hopelessness and stress that life on the streets entails. It can be difficult for people experiencing homelessness to quit substance abuse due to a lack of support networks and motivation.
In contrast, substance abuse can be practiced during times when individuals are housed, and as their lives take a turn with familial conflicts, career disruption, or loss, their habits of alcohol/drugs may become more severe and lead to a cycle of homelessness. Services like WisePlace are dedicated to ending homelessness for unaccompanied women in Orange County by providing the service of addiction management, and Adelante recovery center, a group that promotes fellowship and teaches social skills, specializes in group therapy for recovering individuals. “Because of an L.G.B.T.Q. Alcoholics Anonymous meeting that I went to daily, I had this whole posse of engaged, loving, and wonderful people in my life,” said Jessica, a woman interviewed by the New York Times who in the past experienced homelessness, mental illness, addiction, and domestic violence who found support in the many programs to help the homeless.
Mental illness is also disproportionately high among homeless populations. While 6% of the American population suffers from mental illness, that number jumps to around 25% among homeless people. Similar to drug abuse, mental illness increases the chance of people returning to homelessness more frequently as they face challenges in adapting to new housing. Of the homeless population, Veterans are often likely to experience mental illness as well as addiction. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs states that substance use disorder and P.T.S.D. are two of five common mental health disorders impacting homeless veterans today. P.T.S.D., stemming from the traumas of war, significantly contributes to homelessness among military veterans, with nearly 200,000 veterans experiencing homelessness. For some veterans, leaving behind their homes, loved ones, and jobs becomes an unfortunate consequence of their struggles with mental health issues and addiction. The intersection of addiction, mental illness, and homelessness highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems and interventions tailored to address these challenges faced by vulnerable populations within our communities.