Addiction Treatment & Drug Rehab for Homeless People

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, homelessness is a major problem in the United States.¹ On a single night in 2022, approximately 582,000 people were unsheltered.¹ The breakdown of what categories of people were homeless are as follows: ¹

• 3% of people in families were unsheltered.
• 37% of the unsheltered people were individuals.
• 35% were sheltered individuals.
• 25% were sheltered people in families.

There are risk factors associated with being homeless, one of which is substance abuse.² The relationship between homelessness and drug addiction is well documented.² This makes it necessary to have ample places to facilitate drug rehab for homeless people.

Homelessness and Addiction

Whenever there are many unhoused people living close together, there is a greater risk of homelessness. Of course, homelessness is a problem nationwide, but some areas have higher rates than others. The top 5 states with the greatest number of homeless people are as follows:¹

• California
• Mississippi
• Hawaii
• Oregon
• Arizona

The states with the fewest number of homeless people include the following: ¹

• Vermont
• Maine
• New York
• Wisconsin
• Delaware

Although there is a clear connection between homelessness and addiction, the cause is not clear. ² However, more than 1/3 of the people who are homeless experience alcohol and drug problems. ² Up to 2/3 of homeless people struggle their whole lives with alcohol and drug issues.²

Researchers are not sure if homelessness is the cause of substance use or the effect.² In other words, homelessness may lead people to use substances, putting them at risk for addiction, or a substance use disorder (SUD) can lead to homelessness.² However you look at it, there is a correlation between addiction and homelessness that needs to be addressed.²

In addition, homeless people may be at risk for mental health disorders.² Co-occurring disorders that consist of mental health and SUDs are best served by an integrated drug rehab for the homeless.

Addiction Treatment & Drug Rehab for Homeless People

Having access to homeless drug rehab centers is an important part of healing for homeless people. Since homeless people are without shelter and resources, it may feel overwhelming for them. If you’re in this position, there are homeless rehab centers that will help you on your recovery journey.

Some of the options for substance abuse treatment for homeless people include the following:

• State-funded rehabs: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides resources for state rehabs, including drug rehab for homeless people.³
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): HUD has housing resources for those who are experiencing homelessness.⁴
• Local organizations: Homeless resources may be available from local places. There are about 450 local organizations nationwide that offer various services and support for homelessness that mainstream mental health programs don’t provide.⁵

In addition to these resources, other helpful resources available for the homeless population include:⁴

• Housing resources: There is a range of housing options for homeless people that include emergency shelters, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing.
• Case management services: These services focus on managing homeless people’s housing needs by determining what they are and seeking appropriate solutions.
• Mental health resources: Co-occurring disorders treatment program is essential for homeless people struggling with mental health and SUDs.

Guide to Paying for Rehab for Homeless People

There are a variety of different payment options for rehab treatment for homeless people. Some of these options include the following:^6,7

• Medicare: If you are 65 years of age or older, you can apply for Medicare. This insurance will assist with medical and mental health needs, including substance abuse and homelessness issues.
• Medicaid: People who are income-eligible will qualify for Medicaid. Each state has its own requirements, but homeless people would likely qualify.
• Scholarships & grants: Some rehabs for homeless people may offer scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial aid.
• Low-income or free drug treatment options: There are rehab facilities that offer low-income or free substance abuse treatment for people. When you contact a facility, ask if they are a free rehab