Journal of Addiction Research & Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

Homelessness is a mental health problem in almost Western countries. The purpose of this communication is to update the knowledge about the psychopathology of these public using current diagnostic criteria including the tools proposed by the DSM 5 for clinical and personality disorders. These results will be discussed in light of previous outcomes both on general and homeless populations, especially in terms of dual diagnosis. People who are dually diagnosed with severe mental illness and substance use disorders constitute 10%-20% of homeless persons. They are a heterogeneous and extremely vulnerable subgroup with complex, poorly understood needs. In this article recent research on the epidemiology, subject characteristics, and service needs of the dually diagnosed homeless population is reviewed. Also, the range of evolving approaches to providing social services, housing, and mental health and substance-abuse treatments; the relevant system issues and legal issues; and problems with current research, as well as future research directions, are discussed. The importance of the distinction between providing appropriate living environments and mental health treatments emerges throughout.

Biography

Email: serge.combaluzier@gmail.com