The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #71999

Gillian Leichtling, BA, Kelly Vander Ley, PhD, Roy M. Gabriel, PhD, and Jennifer Lembach, BA. RMC Research Corporation, 522 SW 5th Avenue, Suite 1407, Portland, OR 97204, 503 223-8248, gillian_leichtling@rmccorp.com

Although progress has been made in identifying the relationship between co-occurring disorders (COD) and homelessness, more research is necessary for understanding the unique treatment needs of this population. A study designed to examine 3 existing approaches to COD treatment in outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities in Portland, Oregon produced a useful study sample (n=280) to explore this issue. Thirty-six percent of the study sample reported being homeless in the 90 day period prior to starting treatment. Baseline descriptive analyses indicated that the homeless population had a unique set of problems and treatment needs compared to the non-homeless study population. Specifically, homeless clients evidenced greater substance abuse and mental health severity; reported greater social distress; were more likely to abuse heroin or cocaine rather than alcohol; and were more likely to have been abused in the year prior to treatment. At the 6-month follow-up (90% retention rate), 53% of the homeless sample no longer reported being homeless in the previous 90 days. Among clients who reported being homeless at baseline, clients who remained homeless and clients who were no longer homeless evidenced statistically significant improvements in substance use and mental health indices. The magnitude of change on mental health measures, however, differed significantly between these two groups with newly housed clients experiencing greater improvement. Results indicate that housing is important, though homeless clients may still achieve short-term positive outcomes on substance abuse and mental health measures. Housing alternatives, mental health treatment, and other treatment services will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to:
• 1. Describe key characteristics of homeless COD clients, including treatment needs and risk factors.
• 2. Discuss treatment outcomes for these clients across a variety of domains.
• 3. Identify vital service elements affecting outcomes for homeless COD clients.

Keywords: Homelessness, Substance Abuse Treatment

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.