Illicit Substance Use and Treatment Access Among Adults Experiencing Homelessness

The lack of representative research on homelessness risks mischaracterizing and misrepresenting the prevalence of illicit substance use.

This study, which draws on data from the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness, aims to estimate the population prevalence and patterns of illicit substance use, treatment, nonfatal overdose, and naloxone possession among people experiencing homelessness in California.

Conclusion and Relevance: There was a high proportion of current drug use, history of overdose, and unmet need for treatment. Improving access to treatment tailored to the needs of people experiencing homelessness could improve outcomes.

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