Understanding the intersection of homelessness and addiction is critical for addressing this widespread social issue. Homelessness often overlaps with substance use disorders, and addressing both effectively requires data-driven insights and compassionate strategies. This page provides a detailed analysis of the relationship between homelessness and drug addiction, offering up-to-date statistics, insights into root causes, and information on treatment options.
Homelessness and Addiction: A National Overview
Key Statistics:
- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported that on a single night in 2022, approximately 582,462 individuals experienced homelessness.2
- Around 35% of homeless individuals reported chronic substance use issues in California.3
- Studies indicate that two-thirds of homeless individuals have a lifetime history of substance use disorders.4
Causes of Substance Abuse in Homeless Populations
The relationship between homelessness and addiction is multifaceted, involving a combination of social, psychological, and economic factors:1. Self-Medication for Stress and Trauma
Homelessness is often accompanied by overwhelming stress, exposure to traumatic events, and untreated mental health issues. Many individuals experiencing homelessness use drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism to temporarily escape emotional pain, alleviate anxiety, or manage other psychological challenges. This cycle of self-medication can quickly lead to substance dependence, exacerbating their precarious living situation.2. Social Isolation
Homeless individuals frequently lack robust social support networks, such as family or close friends, which increases their vulnerability to substance abuse. Social isolation can lead to feelings of hopelessness and loneliness, making individuals more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol for solace. Furthermore, isolation limits access to positive influences and resources that might otherwise help prevent or mitigate substance use.3. Co-Occurring Disorders
Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are highly prevalent among homeless populations. These conditions often co-occur with substance use disorders, creating a dual challenge that is difficult to address without integrated treatment. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 50% of homeless individuals with substance use disorders also have a co-occurring mental health disorder.5 This overlap makes recovery more complex and increases the need for specialized care.4. Easy Access to Substances
Within homeless communities, substance use may become a normalized behavior, making drugs and alcohol more accessible. In some cases, substances are readily available due to informal networks or local environments where drug use is common. Social acceptance of substance use within certain groups can also reduce the perceived barriers to initiating or continuing use, perpetuating the cycle of addiction. These factors make it challenging for individuals to break free from substance dependency without external support.
Breaking Down the Numbers: Homelessness and Addiction
Accurate data on homelessness and addiction is essential for understanding the scope of the problem and implementing practical solutions. Below are some key findings:
Alcohol Abuse:
38% of homeless individuals report alcohol dependency.6Drug Abuse:
26% of homeless individuals report drug dependency.6Opioids and methamphetamine are among the most commonly abused substances.7
Co-Occurring Disorders:
57% of homeless adults report having both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.1Veterans and Addiction:
Veterans make up 7% of the homeless population, with many experiencing co-occurring disorders.8 Substance abuse among homeless veterans is exceptionally high, with 50% reporting a history of alcohol or drug dependency.Addressing the Problem: Strategies for Treatment and Support
Homelessness and addiction require a multifaceted approach, including housing solutions, access to healthcare, and targeted addiction treatment.
Housing-First Model
The Housing First approach prioritizes stable housing as a foundational step, followed by voluntary treatment for substance abuse and mental health issues.9 Studies show that individuals in Housing First programs are twice as likely to stay in treatment as those in traditional models.
Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment Options
Homeless individuals often face barriers to accessing treatment, such as cost and lack of transportation. However, various programs aim to bridge this gap:

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a highly effective approach for managing opioid and alcohol addiction. This treatment combines the use of FDA-approved medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, enabling individuals to engage more fully in recovery activities and decrease their risk of relapse. It is widely recognized as a cornerstone of evidence-based addiction care.
Detox Programs
Detox programs provide medical stabilization for individuals undergoing withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. This process is closely monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure safety and comfort. Detoxification is often the critical first step in a comprehensive treatment plan, preparing individuals for long-term recovery by addressing the immediate physical effects of substance use.
Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment addresses the complex interplay between mental health disorders and substance use disorders. By treating both conditions simultaneously, this approach improves outcomes for individuals with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD alongside addiction. This comprehensive care model involves medical, psychological, and therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual’s needs.
Inpatient Rehabilitation
Inpatient rehabilitation provides a structured and supportive environment where individuals can focus exclusively on recovery. These programs typically include 24/7 medical care, individual and group therapy sessions, and holistic activities designed to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Inpatient rehab is particularly beneficial for those with severe addictions or co-occurring disorders who require an intensive level of care.
Community Support Services
Community support services play a vital role in ongoing recovery by fostering connection and accountability. Peer support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide individuals with a sense of belonging and shared understanding. These groups offer a platform for sharing experiences, challenges, and strategies for maintaining sobriety, ensuring that individuals have ongoing support throughout their recovery journey.
The Role of Align Recovery Centers
Our residential and medication-assisted detox programs provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to begin their recovery journey. We accept most major insurances and accept cash pay. By integrating evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches, we help clients overcome addiction and achieve long-term stability.
Key Features of Our Program:
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Effective for managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Comprehensive Assessments
Identifies co-occurring mental health conditions.
Individualized Care Plans
Tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Supportive Housing Options
Ensures stability during and after treatment.
Resources for Homeless Individuals and Their Families
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness and addiction, there are resources available:
- National Helpline: Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support.
- HUD Continuum of Care (CoC): Connects individuals with housing and support services.
- Local Nonprofits: Many organizations provide free or low-cost addiction treatment and housing.
- Community Clinics: Free health clinics often offer behavioral health and addiction services.
Sources:
- 2023 NSDUH detailed Tables. (n.d.). CBHSQ Data. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2023-nsduh-detailed-tables
- Spencer, M., Garnett, M., & Miniño, A. (2023). Drug overdose deaths in the United States, 2002-2022. https://doi.org/10.15620/cdc:135849
- NIDA IC Fact Sheet 2023 | National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022, March 29). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/about-nida/legislative-activities/budget-information/fiscal-year-2023-budget-information-congressional-justification-national-institute-drug-abuse/ic-fact-sheet-2023
- Drug overdose deaths: Facts and figures | National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024, September 30). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates
- FastStats. (n.d.). Illegal Drug Use. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/drug-use-illicit.htm

Dana, with over 20 years in addiction therapy and counseling, is the Executive Director at Align Recovery Centers. Holding a B.S. in Human Services and an M.A. in Counseling & Psychology, she’s both an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. Specializing in DBT and CBT, Dana effectively manages both residential and outpatient programs. Her interests include gardening, cooking, and delving into psychological research in her spare time.