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O'Shaughnessy BR, Mayock P, Kakar A. The recovery experiences of homeless service users with substance use disorder: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 130:104528. [PMID: 39053034 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between homelessness and substance use disorder (SUD) is layered and complex. Adults pursuing recovery while dealing with homelessness and SUD face many challenges. Little research has inspected qualitative first-person accounts of recovery in the context of homelessness and SUD, and few studies have employed conceptualisations of recovery beyond abstinence. In this systematic review study, we examine the qualitative literature on the recovery experiences of adult homeless service users with SUD. METHODS 2,042 records were identified via database and secondary searching strategy. After title and abstract and full text screening, 15 eligible studies remained. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme quality appraisal criteria was used to assess potential bias in the studies. Meta-ethnography was employed to synthesise extracted data. RESULTS Four themes were generated from the extracted data: Two sides of the Service Coin; Navigating Relationships; Recovery Practices and Personal Attributes; and Housing as Foundational for Recovery. CONCLUSION Unconditional housing, a broad array of supports, opportunities to contribute to society, and family reunification supports all facilitate the development of recovery for adults with SUD experiencing homelessness. Implications for policy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branagh R O'Shaughnessy
- School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Paula Mayock
- School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Moore H, Bablitz C, Santos Salas A, Morris H, Sinnarajah A, Watanabe SM. Describing the characteristics and symptom profile of a group of urban patients experiencing socioeconomic inequity and receiving palliative care: a descriptive exploratory analysis. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2024; 18:26323524241264880. [PMID: 39099621 PMCID: PMC11295232 DOI: 10.1177/26323524241264880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Individuals experiencing socioeconomic inequity have worse health outcomes and face barriers to palliative and end-of-life care. There is a need to develop palliative care programs tailored to this underserved population. Objectives To understand the characteristics and symptom profiles of a group of urban patients experiencing socioeconomic inequity and receiving palliative care. Design Descriptive exploratory analysis of a patient dataset. The patient dataset was generated through a pilot research study with patients experiencing socioeconomic inequity and life-limiting illness who received a community-based palliative care intervention. Methods The intervention took place over 1 year in the Palliative Care Outreach and Advocacy Team, a community-based urban palliative care clinic in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, serving persons experiencing socioeconomic inequity. Participants had to be at least 18 years of age, be able to communicate in English, require palliative care for a life-limiting illness, and be able to consent to inclusion in the study. Results Twenty-five participants were enrolled. Participants predominantly identified as male and Indigenous, experienced poverty and housing instability, and had metastatic cancer. Our participants rated their pain, shortness of breath, and anxiety as more severe than the broader community-based palliative care population in the same city. Most patients died in inpatient hospices (73%). Conclusion Our analysis provides an in-depth picture of an understudied, underserved population requiring palliative care. Given the higher symptom severity experienced by participants, our analysis highlights the importance of person-centered palliative care. We suggest that socioeconomic inequity should be considered in patients with life-limiting illnesses. Further research is needed to explore palliative care delivery to those facing socioeconomic inequity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Moore
- Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, 8440 112 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Cara Bablitz
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta
- Family Medicine, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Anna Santos Salas
- Faculty of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Heather Morris
- Faculty of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Aynharan Sinnarajah
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Sharon M. Watanabe
- Department of Symptom Control and Palliative Care Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Collins AB, Tan M, Smith M, Becker SJ. 'Everywhere I call, there's nothing available': Understanding the alcohol treatment landscape and needs among unstably housed people who use alcohol in Rhode Island. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:1235-1246. [PMID: 38623042 PMCID: PMC11223957 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and people who are unstably housed are disproportionately impacted by adverse alcohol-related health outcomes. Addressing the needs of unstably housed people with high-intensity alcohol use (i.e., heavy episodic use or binge drinking), including those whose goal is not abstinence, is critical to reducing harms among this population. This study explores the alcohol-related treatment and support needs among unstably housed people who use alcohol. METHODS Data collection included participant observation and semi-structured interviews (n = 25) with unstably housed people with high-intensity alcohol use. Data were analysed thematically, with attention to structural vulnerability and social-structural forces at shaping perceptions of and experiences with alcohol treatment. RESULTS Participants underscored how housing instability was critical in precipitating and maintaining heavy alcohol use, with alcohol often used to manage the stress and anxiety related to housing instability. While participants regularly engaged with alcohol treatment programs, program design and barriers to access undermined the effectiveness of these services for participants. Participants described the need for a range of program and service options across a continuum of care to be implemented to support participants in meeting their diverse needs and identified goals regarding alcohol use. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Alcohol treatment and supports need to be modified so that they include a range of harm reduction and abstinence-based models to better meet people's diverse needs. Furthermore, treatment must be paired with permanent and affordable housing to address underlying drivers of alcohol-related harm for unstably housed people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra B Collins
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Michael Tan
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, USA
| | - Megan Smith
- School of Social Work, Rhode Island College, Providence, USA
- House of Hope Community Development Corporation, Warwick, USA
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, USA
| | - Sara J Becker
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA
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Bradford WD, Lozano-Rojas F. Higher Rates Of Homelessness Are Associated With Increases In Mortality From Accidental Drug And Alcohol Poisonings. Health Aff (Millwood) 2024; 43:242-249. [PMID: 38315926 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2023.00951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol and drug overdoses have multiple complex causes. In this article we contribute to the literature that links homelessness, the most extreme form of housing disruption, to accidental SUD-related poisonings. Using plausibly exogenous variation from a state's landlord-tenant policies that influence evictions, we estimated the causal impact of homelessness on SUD-related mortality. We found large effects of homelessness on SUD-related poisonings (for example, a 10 percent increase in homelessness led to a 3.2 percent increase in opioid poisonings in metropolitan areas). Our findings indicate that reducing local homelessness rates from the seventy-fifth to the fiftieth percentile levels could have saved more than 1,900 lives from opioid overdoses across all metropolitan localities in the final year of our study data. We conclude that strengthening the social safety net in terms of housing security could help curb the ongoing SUD-related poisoning epidemic in the US.
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Greene A, Korchmaros JD, Frank F. Trauma Experience Among Women Who Have Substance Use Disorders and are Homeless or Near Homeless. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:233-243. [PMID: 37462795 PMCID: PMC10821823 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01162-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Women with substance use disorders (SUDs) who are homeless or near homeless have high rates of mental health, behavioral health, and SUD treatment needs. To effectively respond to these needs, it is critical to understand the population-specific trauma experiences of these women. This descriptive study examined the extent and nature of trauma experience among women who have an SUD and are homeless or near homeless. Results (n = 851 women) indicated high rates of trauma experience. All participants (100%) reported at least one type of trauma experience in their lifetime, with the majority (75.3%) having experienced five to seven of the seven types of trauma experiences assessed. Participants reported high levels of emotional severity related to the majority of traumatic events experienced. The pervasiveness of the trauma experiences and the related emotional impact among women with SUDs who are homeless or near homeless reinforce the necessity for trauma-informed care in treatment settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Greene
- University of Arizona, Southwest Institute for Research on Women, 925 N Tyndall Avenue, P.O. Box 210438, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0438, USA.
- School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, 1025 East 7th Street, Bloomington, IN, 47405-7109, USA.
| | - Josephine D Korchmaros
- University of Arizona, Southwest Institute for Research on Women, 925 N Tyndall Avenue, P.O. Box 210438, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0438, USA
| | - Franziska Frank
- School of Sociology, University of Arizona, 1145 E. South Campus Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0438, USA
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Ballard AM, Falk D, Greenwood H, Gugerty P, Feinberg J, Friedmann PD, Go VF, Jenkins WD, Korthuis PT, Miller WC, Pho MT, Seal DW, Smith GS, Stopka TJ, Westergaard RP, Zule WA, Young AM, Cooper HLF. Houselessness and syringe service program utilization among people who inject drugs in eight rural areas across the USA: a cross-sectional analysis. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:157. [PMID: 37880724 PMCID: PMC10601138 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00892-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research conducted in urban areas has highlighted the impact of housing instability on people who inject drugs (PWID), revealing that it exacerbates vulnerability to drug-related harms and impedes syringe service program (SSP) use. However, few studies have explored the effects of houselessness on SSP use among rural PWID. This study examines the relationship between houselessness and SSP utilization among PWID in eight rural areas across 10 states. METHODS PWID were recruited using respondent-driven sampling for a cross-sectional survey that queried self-reported drug use and SSP utilization in the prior 30 days, houselessness in the prior 6 months and sociodemographic characteristics. Using binomial logistic regression, we examined the relationship between experiencing houselessness and any SSP use. To assess the relationship between houselessness and the frequency of SSP use, we conducted multinomial logistic regression analyses among participants reporting any past 30-day SSP use. RESULTS Among 2394 rural PWID, 56.5% had experienced houselessness in the prior 6 months, and 43.5% reported past 30-day SSP use. PWID who had experienced houselessness were more likely to report using an SSP compared to their housed counterparts (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.24 [95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.01, 1.52]). Among those who had used an SSP at least once (n = 972), those who experienced houselessness were just as likely to report SSP use two (aOR = 0.90 [95% CI 0.60, 1.36]) and three times (aOR = 1.18 [95% CI 0.77, 1.98]) compared to once. However, they were less likely to visit an SSP four or more times compared to once in the prior 30 days (aOR = 0.59 [95% CI 0.40, 0.85]). CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that rural PWID who experience houselessness utilize SSPs at similar or higher rates as their housed counterparts. However, housing instability may pose barriers to more frequent SSP use. These findings are significant as people who experience houselessness are at increased risk for drug-related harms and encounter additional challenges when attempting to access SSPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Ballard
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur Street SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
| | - Dylan Falk
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Harris Greenwood
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Paige Gugerty
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Judith Feinberg
- School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Peter D Friedmann
- Office of Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Wiley D Jenkins
- School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - P Todd Korthuis
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - William C Miller
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David W Seal
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Gordon S Smith
- School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Ryan P Westergaard
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - April M Young
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, 111 Washington Avenue, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Reddon H, Fairbairn N, Grant C, Milloy MJ. Experiencing homelessness and progression through the HIV cascade of care among people who use drugs. AIDS 2023; 37:1431-1440. [PMID: 37070552 PMCID: PMC10330029 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the longitudinal association between periods of homelessness and progression through the HIV cascade of care among people who use drugs (PWUD) with universal access to no-cost HIV treatment and care. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Data were analysed from the ACCESS study, including systematic HIV clinical monitoring and a confidential linkage to comprehensive antiretroviral therapy (ART) dispensation records. We used cumulative link mixed-effects models to estimate the longitudinal relationship between periods of homelessness and progression though the HIV cascade of care. RESULTS Between 2005 and 2019, 947 people living with HIV were enrolled in the ACCESS study and 304 (32.1%) reported being homeless at baseline. Homelessness was negatively associated with overall progression through the HIV cascade of care [adjusted partial proportional odds ratio (APPO) = 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49-0.63]. Homelessness was significantly associated with lower odds of progressing to each subsequent stage of the HIV care cascade, with the exception of initial linkage to care. CONCLUSIONS Homelessness was associated with a 44% decrease in the odds of overall progression through the HIV cascade of care, and a 41-54% decrease in the odds of receiving ART, being adherent to ART and achieving viral load suppression. These findings support calls for the integration of services to address intersecting challenges of HIV, substance use and homelessness among marginalized populations such as PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hudson Reddon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nadia Fairbairn
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Moore H, De Pedro K. Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Students Experiencing Homelessness and Substance Use in the School Context: A Statewide Study. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2023; 93:107-114. [PMID: 36661077 PMCID: PMC10087241 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study explored differences between lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB)-housed and homeless students regarding substance use patterns on and off school grounds and the unique contribution of homelessness to substance use in school. METHODS Data were from the 2013-2015 California Healthy Kids Survey, a statewide survey of school protective factors and risk behaviors. A representative sample of 9th- and 11th-grade students (N = 20,337) was used. Comparisons between housed (n = 19,456) and homeless (doubled up: n = 715; acute homeless: n = 166) LGB students were conducted. We used chi-square tests to compare rates of lifetime, past-30-day, and in-school substance use and conducted multivariate logistic regression models for each substance use variables. RESULTS Chi-square test results indicated significant differences in rates of substance use among students experiencing homelessness (both categories) and housed LGB students. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual students experiencing homelessness were more likely to report substance use off and on school grounds. Results from logistic regression analyses indicated that LGB students who experience homelessness were significantly more likely to report recent and in-school substance use. For example, students experiencing acute homelessness were about 3 times as likely to report heavy episodic drinking (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.13, 4.26) and more than 5 times as likely to smoke marijuana in school (AOR = 5.38; 95% CI = 3.46, 8.36), compared to housed LGB students. CONCLUSIONS LGB students who experience homelessness are at higher risk than housed LGB students of substance use on and off school grounds. Findings highlight the need to provide support in the school context for this subpopulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadass Moore
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social WelfareHebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Kris De Pedro
- Attallah College of Educational StudiesChapman UniversityOrangeCA
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Ivsins A, Warnock A, Small W, Strike C, Kerr T, Bardwell G. A scoping review of qualitative research on barriers and facilitators to the use of supervised consumption services. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 111:103910. [PMID: 36436364 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A substantial body of evidence demonstrates that supervised consumption services (SCS) mitigate a variety of drug-related harms, including decreasing overdose deaths, infectious disease transmission, and connecting people who use drugs (PWUD) to various health and social services. Research on SCS has predominantly been quantitative, though qualitative research on these services has increased substantially over the last decade. Qualitative methods provide a framework for developing a richer and more nuanced understanding of meanings and contexts associated with drug use, health service implementation, and experience. We present findings from a scoping review of qualitative studies on experiences of PWUD with SCS published between 1997 and 2022. In total, forty-two papers were included in this analysis. Four primary themes emerged from our analysis: 1) Influence of SCS on health and wellbeing among PWUD, 2) the physical environment of SCS can be both a facilitator and barrier to use, 3) social resources can shape and reshape the context within which PWUD benefit from SCS, and 4) various intersecting forces at play both support and harm PWUD in relation to their experiences with SCS. We discuss the primary facilitators and barriers of SCS use and conclude with suggestions to inform future qualitative research, SCS implementation, and PWUD-centered approaches to drug policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Ivsins
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada.
| | - Ashley Warnock
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Will Small
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Carol Strike
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Geoff Bardwell
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
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Carver H, Parkes T, Masterton W, Booth H, Ball L, Murdoch H, Falzon D, Pauly BM. The Potential for Managed Alcohol Programmes in Scotland during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Exploration of Key Areas for Implementation Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15207. [PMID: 36429926 PMCID: PMC9690644 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
People experiencing homelessness and alcohol dependence are at increased risk of a range of harms, including from COVID-19. Managed Alcohol Programmes (MAPs) are an alcohol harm reduction intervention specifically for this group. In this paper we report on qualitative findings of a mixed methods study investigating the potential utility of MAPs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Scotland. Interviews, conducted with 40 participants, explored potential views of implementing MAPs during the pandemic. Theoretically, we drew on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to inform data collection and analysis. Six themes were identified which mapped onto three CFIR domains: perceptions of MAPs and the evidence base; necessary components of MAPs; changing culture of alcohol harm reduction; MAPs as a moral and ethical grey area; addressing a service gap; and securing buy-in and partnership working. Participants were generally positive about MAPs and viewed them as a key intervention to address a service gap. Several necessary components were identified for successful implementation of MAPs. Securing buy-in from a range of stakeholders and partnership working were deemed important. Finally, MAPs require careful, long-term planning before implementation. We conclude that MAPs are needed in Scotland and require long-term funding and appropriate resources to ensure they are successful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Carver
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Wendy Masterton
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Hazel Booth
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Lee Ball
- Homelessness Services Unit, The Salvation Army, London SE1 6BN, UK
| | - Helen Murdoch
- Homelessness Services Unit, The Salvation Army, London SE1 6BN, UK
| | - Danilo Falzon
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Bernie M. Pauly
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
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The Prevalence of Problem Gambling and Gambling Disorder Among Homeless People: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis. J Gambl Stud 2022; 39:467-482. [PMID: 35851824 PMCID: PMC10175321 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10140-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractGambling problems are often associated with homelessness and linked to elevated psychiatric morbidity and homelessness chronicity. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on prevalence rates of problem gambling (PG) and gambling disorder (GD) in homeless people. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched databases Medline, Embase and PsycINFO from inception of databases to 4th may 2021. We included studies reporting prevalence estimates on clinical gambling problems in representative samples of homeless people based on standardized diagnostics. Risk of bias was assessed. A random effects meta-analysis was performed, and subgroup analyses based on methodological characteristics of primary studies were conducted. We identified eight studies from five countries, reporting information on 1938 participants. Prevalence rates of clinically significant PG and GD ranged from 11.3 to 31.3%. There was evidence for substantial heterogeneity with I2 = 86% (95% CI 63–97%). A subgroup of four low risk of bias studies displayed a significantly lower results ranging from 11.3 to 23.6%. Additionally, high rates of subclinical problem gambling were reported (11.6–56.4%). At least one in ten homeless persons experiences clinically significant PG or GD. Social support and health care services for the homeless should address this problem by implementing models for early detection and treatment.
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Homelessness at the San Diego Central Library: Assessing the Potential Role of Social Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148449. [PMID: 35886311 PMCID: PMC9322596 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nationwide, public libraries are experiencing an increase in “on-premise” opioid overdoses and other issues (e.g., suicide attempts) affecting unstably housed library users. The public library presents a unique opportunity to access an otherwise hidden population. In partnership with the San Diego Central Library, researchers led focus groups, in-depth interviews, and surveys with 63 library patrons experiencing homelessness or housing instability (n = 49) and library staff (n = 14) (January–June 2019). Using a consensus organizing framework and mixed methods approach, the researchers conducted in-depth interviews exploring the library’s strengths and opportunities for patrons experiencing homelessness, the barriers to meeting their aspirations, and whether having a social worker at the library or other policy changes in government or the library could help. Specifically, participants answered inquiries about the opportunities for the library to address substance use and human trafficking. In brief surveys, library patrons and staff provided views on the patrons’ educational needs, library staff’s training needs, and changes needed in government or library policies. Results revealed the desire of the library patrons (69%) and staff (93%) to have a library social worker who could link patrons to housing services, substance use harm reduction or treatment, and address food-insecure youth/families and human trafficking/sexual exploitation. Participants also valued peer advocates with lived homelessness experiences. Over 70% of the unstably housed patrons said they would like library patrons to participate in peer leadership training. Other significant themes were the need for crisis prevention and intervention, connecting patrons to resources and each other, and creating consistent assistance. Libraries urgently need more on-premise support to address patrons’ pressing housing, health, and mental health needs.
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Santos RRD, Hacker MDAVB, Mota JCD, Bastos FI. Housing characteristics of crack cocaine users in Northeast Brazil, 2011-2013. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022; 27:2407-2416. [PMID: 35649027 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232022276.16522021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared sociodemographic characteristics, substance use patterns, sexual behavior, use of health services, and criminal records of homeless vs. domiciled users. Data are from the Brazilian National Survey on Crack Use. A discriminant model and correspondence analysis cross-compared characteristics of users according to their housing status. The logistic model revealed associations between "living in the streets" and female gender and intermittent work. "Homelessness" was also associated with the use of tobacco and "oxi" in the previous 30 days, reliance on soup kitchens, low access to public mental health services, and arrests in the previous year. Correspondence analysis highlighted the spatial proximity of the variables as follows: "having traded sex for drugs", "informal work", "age 31 years or older", "access to public mental health services", "problems with law enforcement", and female gender with homeless crack users. People who smoke crack cocaine in Northeast Brazil are seldom studied. Their profiles, stratified according to their housing conditions, show subgroups with specific characteristics. While domiciled users have access to specialized clinics, homeless users basically reported access to free food and harm reduction services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Rodrigues Dos Santos
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz). R. Leopoldo Bulhões 1480, Manguinhos. 21041-210 Rio de Janeiro RJ Brasil.
| | | | - Jurema Corrêa da Mota
- Laboratório de Informações em Saúde, Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Científica e Tecnológica em Saúde, Fiocruz. Rio de Janeiro RJ Brasil
| | - Francisco Inácio Bastos
- Laboratório de Informações em Saúde, Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Científica e Tecnológica em Saúde, Fiocruz. Rio de Janeiro RJ Brasil
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14
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Yoo R, Krawczyk N, Johns E, McCormack RP, Rotrosen J, Mijanovich T, Gelberg L, Doran KM. Association of substance use characteristics and future homelessness among emergency department patients with drug use or unhealthy alcohol use: Results from a linked data longitudinal cohort analysis. Subst Abus 2022; 43:1100-1109. [DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2022.2060445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Yoo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Noa Krawczyk
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eileen Johns
- NYC Center for Innovation through Data Intelligence, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ryan P. McCormack
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Rotrosen
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tod Mijanovich
- Applied Statistics, Social Science, and Humanities, NYU Steinhardt School, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lillian Gelberg
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, The University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Office of Healthcare Transformation and Innovation, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kelly M. Doran
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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15
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Motta-Ochoa R, Incio-Serra N, Poliquin H, MacDonald SA, Huỳnh C, Côté PB, Fallu JS, Flores-Aranda J. "A place to be safe, feel at home and get better": including the experiential knowledge of potential users in the design of the first wet service in Montreal, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:34. [PMID: 35382814 PMCID: PMC8985343 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00616-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The harmful use of alcohol is one of the leading health risk factors for people’s health worldwide, but some populations, like people who experience homelessness, are more vulnerable to its detrimental effects. In the past decades, harm reduction interventions that target these complex issues has been developed. For example, wet services include a wide range of arrangements (wet shelters, drop-in centers, transitory housing, etc.) that allow indoor alcohol use and Managed Alcohol Programs provide regulated doses of alcohol in addition to accommodation and services. Although the positive impacts of these interventions have been reported, little is known about how to integrate the knowledge of people experiencing homelessness and alcohol dependence into the design of such programs. The aim of this study is to present the findings of such an attempt in a first wet service in Montreal, Canada.
Methods Community based participatory research approach and qualitative methods—including semi-structured interviews and focus groups—were used to collect the knowledge of potential users (n = 34) of the wet service. The data collected was thematically analyzed. Results Participants reported experiencing harsh living conditions, poverty, stigmatization and police harassment, which increased their alcohol use. The intersection between participants’ alcohol dependence and homelessness with the high barriers to access public services translated into their exclusion from several of such services. Participants envisioned Montreal’s wet service as a safe space to drink, a place that would provide multiple services, a home, and a site of recovery. Conclusions Integrating the knowledge of potential users into the design of harm reduction interventions is essential to develop better and more adapted services to meet complex needs. We propose that it could fosters users’ engagement and contribute to their sense of empower, which is crucial for a group that is typically discriminated against and suffers from marginalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossio Motta-Ochoa
- École de travail social, Université du Québec à Montréal, 455, boul. René-Lévesque Est Local W-4020, Montreal, Québec, H2L 4Y2, Canada
| | - Natalia Incio-Serra
- Faculty of Education, McGill University, 3700 McTavish Street, Montreal, Québec, H3A 1Y2, Canada
| | - Hélène Poliquin
- National Collaborating Center for Healthy Public Policies at Institut national de santé publique du Québec, 190 Boul Crémazie E, Montreal, Québec, H2P 1E2, Canada
| | - Sue-Ann MacDonald
- École de travail social, Université de Montréal. Pavillon Lionel-Groulx, 3150, Jean-Brillant (C- 7069), Montreal, Québec, H3T 1J7, Canada
| | - Christophe Huỳnh
- École de psychoéducation, Université de Montréal. Pavillon Marie-Victorin, 90, av. Vincent- d'Indy, Montreal, Québec, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Département de psychiatrie et d'addictologie, Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, 2900, boul. Édouard- Montpetit, bureau S-750, Montreal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada.,Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, 950 rue de Louvain Est, Montreal, Québec, H2M 2E8, Canada
| | - Philippe-Benoit Côté
- Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 455, Boul. René-Lévesque Est, Montreal, Québec, H2L 4Y2, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Fallu
- École de psychoéducation, Université de Montréal. Pavillon Marie-Victorin, 90, av. Vincent- d'Indy, Montreal, Québec, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, 950 rue de Louvain Est, Montreal, Québec, H2M 2E8, Canada
| | - Jorge Flores-Aranda
- École de travail social, Université du Québec à Montréal, 455, boul. René-Lévesque Est Local W-4020, Montreal, Québec, H2L 4Y2, Canada. .,Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, 950 rue de Louvain Est, Montreal, Québec, H2M 2E8, Canada.
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16
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Keyes KM, Cerdá M. Dynamics of drug overdose in the 20th and 21st centuries: The exponential curve was not inevitable, and continued increases are preventable. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 104:103675. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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17
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Rizzo D, Mu T, Cotroneo S, Arunogiri S. Barriers to Accessing Addiction Treatment for Women at Risk of Homelessness. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:795532. [PMID: 35252964 PMCID: PMC8893170 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.795532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Women remain under-represented in addiction treatment, comprising less than a third of clients in treatment services. Shame, stigma, and fear of legal and social repercussions (e.g., child protection involvement) are major barriers impacting on treatment-seeking for women. This is compounded for women at risk of homelessness, with practical and logistical reasons for not engaging in treatment. We conducted a qualitative study with both clinicians and service-providers, and women with lived experience of addiction and at risk of homelessness, to identify barriers to access and help-seeking within this vulnerable population. Adult women with lived experience of homelessness and addiction were invited to participate in an online focus group. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using framework analysis. Analysis resulted in the identification of barriers to access in three areas. These were system-related, socio-cultural, and emotional barriers. We also present findings from the focus group recorded in real-time, using the novel method of digital illustration. This study highlights key factors impacting on help-seeking and access to treatment for addiction faced by women at risk of homelessness. The findings of this study highlight important areas of consideration for clinicians and service-providers working with women who experience addiction, as well as informing future research directions for this priority population. Findings are discussed in the context of exigent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davinia Rizzo
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Richmond, VIC, Australia
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Davinia Rizzo
| | - Temika Mu
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Shalini Arunogiri
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash Addiction Research Centre and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Richmond, VIC, Australia
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, VIC, Australia
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18
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Shegaw M, Fekadu W, Beka M, Menberu M, Yohannes K, Yimer S, Seid M, Necho M, Moges S, Anbesaw T. Problematic substance use and its associated factors among street youth in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:930059. [PMID: 35966470 PMCID: PMC9365990 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.930059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Problematic substance use is becoming a common problem in marginalized groups such as street youths. However, there is a dearth of studies on the prevalence and factors associated with problematic substance use among street youth in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of problematic substance use and identify its associated factors among street youth. METHODS This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between June and July 2020. A total of 252 participants were included in this study. Systematic random sampling was used to recruit participants. Cut down, annoyed, guilty feeling, and eye opening-adapted to include drugs (CAGE-AIDs) were used to assess problematic substance use. The data were entered into epidata and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Logistic regression with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to show the strength of association. A p-value < 0.5 was statistically significant. RESULTS The prevalence of problematic substance use was 55.8%, 95% CI (49-63%). Peer pressure [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.38, 6.59], family conflict [AOR = 5.05, 95% CI: 1.67, 15.25], physical abuse [AOR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.84], and substance use in the family [AOR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.29, 6.27] were the factors significantly associated with problematic substance use. CONCLUSION The prevalence of problematic substance use was high. It was also found that peer pressure, family conflict, substance use in the family, and physical abuse were the factors associated with problematic substance use. Therefore, proper screening and intervention for individuals with problematic substance use are needed, and further research should be conducted for marginalized groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maregu Shegaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Wubalem Fekadu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Michael Beka
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Melake Menberu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Kalkidan Yohannes
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Yimer
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Seid
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Mogesie Necho
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Moges
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Anbesaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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19
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Carney T, Hopkins J, Laubscher R, Siegfried N. Factors associated with current substance use among a sample of homeless individuals in Cape Town, South Africa: a secondary data analysis. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2021; 22:741-754. [PMID: 34890300 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2021.2011817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Homelessness is a global issue that is often associated with substance use. Research on this relationship in low- to middle-income countries (LMIC) is limited. We aimed to explore which factors are associated with substance use through secondary data analysis of a sample of 472 adults who attended services for homeless individuals in Cape Town, South Africa. Logistic regression was utilized to investigate if length of homelessness was associated with current alcohol and drug use respectively, after accounting for other factors. Current drug use (44.9%) was higher than current alcohol use (22.7%) and the most prevalent lifetime drug was methamphetamine (32.6%). After adjusting for lifetime substance use, and source of income, length of homelessness was not significantly associated with current alcohol use (less than on year: OR = 2.60; 95% CI: 0.78-8.66; one or more years: OR = 0.90; 95% CI: 0.32-2.57) or current drug use (less than one year: OR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.41-1.47; one year or more: OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.56-1.93). These results highlight the need to further investigate other factors that may influence current alcohol or drug use among populations at risk of being homeless, and to utilize validated measures of substance and other mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Carney
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Ria Laubscher
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Nandi Siegfried
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
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20
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Austin AE, Shiue KY, Naumann RB, Figgatt MC, Gest C, Shanahan ME. Associations of housing stress with later substance use outcomes: A systematic review. Addict Behav 2021; 123:107076. [PMID: 34385075 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A synthesis of existing evidence regarding the association of housing stress with later substance use outcomes can help support and inform housing interventions as a potential strategy to address problematic substance use. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Social Work Abstracts, and Sociological Abstracts and systematically screened for articles examining housing stress and later substance use outcomes among U.S. adults. Across 38 relevant articles published from 1991 to 2020, results demonstrated an association of homelessness with an increased likelihood of substance use, substance use disorders (SUD), and overdose death. Results regarding the association of homelessness with receipt and completion of SUD treatment were mixed, and one study indicated no association of homelessness with motivation to change substance use behaviors. Several studies did not find an association of unstable housing with substance use or receipt of SUD treatment, while others found an association of unstable housing with intensified SUD symptoms and a decreased likelihood of completing SUD treatment. Overall, while there is evidence of an association of homelessness with later substance use, SUD, and overdose death, results for other forms of housing stress and some substance use outcomes are less consistent. There are several methodological considerations specific to selected measures of housing stress and substance use, study populations, and analytic approaches that have implications for results and directions for future research. Despite these considerations, results collectively suggest that innovative interventions to address housing stress, namely homelessness, may help mitigate some substance use outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Austin
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States.
| | - Kristin Y Shiue
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Rebecca B Naumann
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Mary C Figgatt
- Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Caitlin Gest
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Meghan E Shanahan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States; Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
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21
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Exploring the Potential of Implementing Managed Alcohol Programmes to Reduce Risk of COVID-19 Infection and Transmission, and Wider Harms, for People Experiencing Alcohol Dependency and Homelessness in Scotland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312523. [PMID: 34886249 PMCID: PMC8657286 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
People who experience homelessness and alcohol dependency are more vulnerable than the general population to risks/harms relating to COVID-19. This mixed methods study explored stakeholder perspectives concerning the impact of COVID-19 and the potential utility of introducing managed alcohol programmes (MAPs) in Scotland as part of a wider health/social care response for this group. Data sources included: 12 case record reviews; 40 semi-structured qualitative interviews; and meeting notes from a practitioner-researcher group exploring implementation of MAPs within a third sector/not-for-profit organisation. A series of paintings were curated as a novel part of the research process to support knowledge translation. The case note review highlighted the complexity of health problems experienced, in addition to alcohol dependency, including polysubstance use, challenges related to alcohol access/use during lockdown, and complying with stay-at-home rules. Qualitative analysis generated five subthemes under the theme of ‘MAPs as a response to COVID-19′: changes to alcohol supply/use including polysubstance use; COVID-19-related changes to substance use/homelessness services; negative changes to services for people with alcohol problems; the potential for MAPs in the context of COVID-19; and fears and concerns about providing MAPs as a COVID-19 response. We conclude that MAPs have the potential to reduce a range of harms for this group, including COVID-19-related harms.
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Greenspace programmes for mental health: A survey study to test what works, for whom, and in what circumstances. Health Place 2021; 72:102669. [PMID: 34649209 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The health benefits of greenspace are widely acknowledged. Greenspace programmes, defined as health programmes undertaken in outside green areas such as parks, gardens, hills, and forests, are becoming more commonplace. However, there is still limited understanding of the mechanisms by which greenspace programmes are effective. This makes future development and implementation very difficult. We recently developed and published a novel framework for greenspace programmes for mental health showing what works, for whom, and in what circumstances (Masterton et al., 2020). In this current study, the accuracy of the proposed framework was tested for the first time using primary data from greenspace organisations in Scotland. Given the link between mental health and substance use, the applicability of the framework to programmes that support people with problem substance use was also tested. A survey was designed to test the contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes identified within the previously proposed framework. The survey was completed by 64 participants to provide a general overview of the framework's applicability for programmes that support mental health, as well as for programmes that support people with problem substance use. Overall, respondents agreed with all survey statements. This suggests that the framework does effectively represent the underlying context, mechanism, outcome configurations of greenspace programmes for mental health. Furthermore, there were no differences between responses from organisations that support people with problem substance use, and organisations that do not support this client group. This shows that the framework has the potential to be applicable to both greenspace programmes for mental health and greenspace programmes for people with problem substance use. This is a novel finding as, to our knowledge, there is currently no framework looking to explain the contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes necessary for greenspace programmes to be successful for people with problem substance use.
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23
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Nasmith TE, Gadermann A, Jaworsky D, Norena M, To MJ, Hwang SW, Palepu A. Clinically significant substance use and residential stability among homeless or vulnerably housed persons in Canada: a longitudinal cohort study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 43:532-540. [PMID: 32076717 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We examined clinically significant substance use among homeless or vulnerably housed persons in three Canadian cities and its association with residential stability over time using data from the Health and Housing in Transition study. METHODS In 2009, 1190 homeless or vulnerably housed individuals were recruited in three Canadian cities and followed for 4 years. We collected information on housing and incarceration history, drug and alcohol use, having a primary care provider at baseline and annually for 4 years. Participants who screened positive for substance use at baseline were included in the analyses. We used a generalized logistic mixed effect regression model to examine the association between clinically significant substance use and residential stability, adjusting for confounders. RESULTS Initially, 437 participants met the criteria for clinically significant substance use. The proportion of clinically significant substance use declined, while the proportion of participants who achieved residential stability increased over time. Clinically significant substance use was negatively associated with achieving residential stability over the 4-year period (AOR 0.7; 95% CI 0.57, 0.86). CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of homeless or vulnerably housed individuals, clinically significant substance use was negatively associated with achieving residential stability over time, highlighting the need to better address substance use in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy E Nasmith
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Anne Gadermann
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Denise Jaworsky
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Monica Norena
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Matthew J To
- Centre for Research on Inner City Health, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Stephen W Hwang
- Centre for Research on Inner City Health, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Anita Palepu
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
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24
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Miler JA, Carver H, Masterton W, Parkes T, Maden M, Jones L, Sumnall H. What treatment and services are effective for people who are homeless and use drugs? A systematic 'review of reviews'. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254729. [PMID: 34260656 PMCID: PMC8279330 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who experience homelessness and those vulnerably housed experience disproportionately high rates of drug use and associated harms, yet barriers to services and support are common. We undertook a systematic 'review of reviews' to investigate the effects of interventions for this population on substance use, housing, and related outcomes, as well as on treatment engagement, retention and successful completion. METHODS AND FINDINGS We searched ten electronic databases from inception to October 2020 for reviews and syntheses, conducted a grey literature search, and hand searched reference lists of included studies. We selected reviews that synthesised evidence on any type of treatment or intervention that reported substance use outcomes for people who reported being homeless. We appraised the quality of included reviews using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses and the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles. Our search identified 843 citations, and 25 reviews met the inclusion criteria. Regarding substance use outcomes, there was evidence that harm reduction approaches lead to decreases in drug-related risk behaviour and fatal overdoses, and reduce mortality, morbidity, and substance use. Case management interventions were significantly better than treatment as usual in reducing substance use among people who are homeless. The evidence indicates that Housing First does not lead to significant changes in substance use. Evidence regarding housing and other outcomes is mixed. CONCLUSIONS People who are homeless and use drugs experience many barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment. Evidence regarding interventions designed specifically for this population is limited, but harm reduction and case management approaches can lead to improvements in substance use outcomes, whilst some housing interventions improve housing outcomes and may provide more stability. More research is needed regarding optimal treatment length as well as qualitative insights from people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Astrid Miler
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Hannah Carver
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Wendy Masterton
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Michelle Maden
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England
| | - Lisa Jones
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, England
| | - Harry Sumnall
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, England
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Parkes T, Carver H, Matheson C, Browne T, Pauly B. ‘It’s like a safety haven’: considerations for the implementation of managed alcohol programs in Scotland. DRUGS: EDUCATION, PREVENTION AND POLICY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2021.1945536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Hannah Carver
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Catriona Matheson
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Tania Browne
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Bernie Pauly
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
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Negotiating Multiple Stigmas: Substance Use in the Lives of Women Experiencing Homelessness. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00560-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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The association of opioid use disorder and homelessness nationally in the veterans health administration. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 223:108714. [PMID: 33865213 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use disorder (SUD) is a major risk factor for homelessness, but the specific association of opioid use disorder (OUD) and homelessness in the context of their shared risk factors has not been the focus of prior studies. We used national data from the United States Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to examine the association of OUD and homelessness in the context of shared risk factors. METHODS In this cross-sectional analysis of veterans who received VHA care during Fiscal Year 2012 (N = 5,450,078), we compared the prevalence of OUD and other sociodemographic, and clinical factors among homeless and non-homeless veterans. We estimated the odds ratio for homelessness associated with OUD alone, and after adjusting for other factors through multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Homeless veterans had substantially higher prevalence of OUD than other VHA patients (7.7 % Vs 0.6 %) and OUD was associated with 13 times higher unadjusted odds of homelessness (Odds Ratio [OR] 13.36, 95 % CI 13.09-13.62), which decreased with adjustment for sociodemographic factors (black race, mean income and age), other SUD, medical, and psychiatric diagnoses (final OR 1.57, 95 % CI 1.53-1.61). Other SUDs (alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, and hallucinogens) showed similar or slightly higher odds of homelessness as OUD in the final model. CONCLUSIONS OUD was strongly associated with homelessness among US veterans although this association was largely but not entirely attenuated by shared sociodemographic and co-morbid risk factors including several other SUDs. Treatment of homeless veterans with OUD should address socio-economic vulnerabilities and other co-morbidities in addition to treatments for OUD.
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Ezell JM, Ompad DC, Walters S. How urban and rural built environments influence the health attitudes and behaviors of people who use drugs. Health Place 2021; 69:102578. [PMID: 33964805 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that the built environment is associated with drug use. However, there is limited scholarship focusing on specific features of the built environment that influence drug use behaviors, experiences, and patterns and how risk factors for drug use are placed in distinctive urban and rural settings. Applying Neely and Samura's conceptual theory that describes space as contested, fluid and historical, interactional and relational, and defined by inequality and difference, we assessed data from semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted between 2019 and 2020 with consumers at syringe exchange programs (SEPs) in an urban location (New York City) and a rural location (southern Illinois). We aimed to contextualize how drug use manifests in each space. In total, 65 individuals, including 59 people who use drugs (PWUD) and six professionals who worked with PWUD, were interviewed. Findings illustrate that, in both the urban and rural setting, the built environment regulates the drug use milieu by mediating social reproduction, namely the degree of agency PWUD exert to acquire and use drugs where they desire. Processes of "stigma zoning," defined as socio-spatial policing of boundaries of behavior deemed undesirable or deviant, impacted PWUD's socio-geographic mobility, social conditions, and resource access, and modulated PWUD's broader capacity and self-efficacy. Similar patterns of drug use, according to social and economic inequities chiefly related to housing instability, were further observed in both settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel M Ezell
- Africana Studies and Research Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA; Cornell Center for Health Equity, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA; Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Danielle C Ompad
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA; Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suzan Walters
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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Moschion J, van Ours JC. Do transitions in and out of homelessness relate to mental health episodes? A longitudinal analysis in an extremely disadvantaged population. Soc Sci Med 2020; 279:113667. [PMID: 33971444 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper studies the association between homelessness and mental health episodes focusing on episodes of depression, anxiety and other conditions (bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder). Using panel data from the Australian Journeys Home survey, we investigate the extent to which this association is due to common determinants of homelessness and mental health episodes, or whether there is a causal link between them. The results indicate that episodes of depression increase the probability that a person becomes homeless. This is not the case for other mental health conditions. We find no evidence that becoming homeless causes a person to have a mental health episode. Instead, respondents are less likely to be diagnosed with depression in the 6 months after being precariously housed. Overall, our results indicate that, except for depression, the links between mental health episodes and homelessness are complex and are mostly unlikely to be causal. Using information on service usage, we find suggestive evidence that people use mental health services when they need to but that more coordination with housing services is required to protect them from becoming precariously housed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Moschion
- Melbourne Institute, Applied Economic & Social Research, University of Melbourne, Australia; IZA, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Jan C van Ours
- IZA, Bonn, Germany; Erasmus School of Economics and Tinbergen Institute, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Economics, University of Melbourne, Australia; CEPR, London, United Kingdom.
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de Espíndola MI, Bedendo A, da Silva EA, Noto AR. Interpersonal relationships and drug use over time among homeless people: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1746. [PMID: 33213421 PMCID: PMC7678275 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09880-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Homelessness is one of the most severe forms of social exclusion and is an important public health issue. It is characterized by processes of weakening of interpersonal bonds. The objective of this study was, therefore, to elucidate how interpersonal relationships change over the life cycle of homeless drug and alcohol users. Method We used a qualitative methodology. The participants were adults who had a history of homelessness and use of alcohol and other drugs. The interviews were semi structured and used a timeline instrument. All interview were audio recorded, transcribed, and submitted to thematic analysis. Results Twenty individuals participated in the study. Reports on social exclusion over time stood out in respect of four main themes and their respective subthemes: Theme 1 – Childhood: instability upbringing, abuse, violence, and an absent or not very present father figure; Theme 2 – Adolescence: school dropout and failure; acceptance of gender and sexual orientation; birth of first child, living with a partner or getting married: Theme 3 – Adulthood: estrangement or conflicting relationship with family; health problems; drug trafficking and prostitution; Theme 4 – Cross-cutting factors: death of relatives and substance use. Conclusion The results suggest that interpersonal relationships are permeated by successive breakups, conflicts and other events that start in childhood and can have a cumulative effect in later stages of life, and cross the subsequent phases. Substance abuse and dependence are mentioned as cross-cutting factors that intensify social exclusion in all stages of life. Supplementary Information Supplementary information accompanies this paper at 10.1186/s12889-020-09880-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília Ignácio de Espíndola
- NEPSIS - Research Center on Health and Substance Use, Sao Paulo, Brazil. .,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1° Andar, Vila Clementino, SP, 04023062, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - André Bedendo
- NEPSIS - Research Center on Health and Substance Use, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1° Andar, Vila Clementino, SP, 04023062, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eroy Aparecida da Silva
- NEPSIS - Research Center on Health and Substance Use, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1° Andar, Vila Clementino, SP, 04023062, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Regina Noto
- NEPSIS - Research Center on Health and Substance Use, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu, 862 - 1° Andar, Vila Clementino, SP, 04023062, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Carver H, Parkes T, Browne T, Matheson C, Pauly B. Investigating the need for alcohol harm reduction and managed alcohol programs for people experiencing homelessness and alcohol use disorders in Scotland. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 40:220-230. [PMID: 33006255 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Managed alcohol programs (MAP) are a harm reduction approach for those experiencing alcohol use disorders (AUD) and homelessness. These programs were developed in Canada and have had positive results; very few exist in the UK and Ireland. The aim of this study was to scope the feasibility and acceptability of implementing MAPs in Scotland. DESIGN AND METHODS Using mixed-methods, we conducted two linked phases of work. Quantitative data were collected from the case records of 33 people accessing eight third sector services in Scotland and analysed in SPSS using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data were collected in Scotland via semi-structured interviews with 29 individuals in a range of roles, including strategic informants (n = 12), service staff (n = 8) and potential beneficiaries (n = 9). Data were analysed using Framework Analysis in NVivo. RESULTS The case record review revealed high levels of alcohol use, related health and social harms, illicit drug use, withdrawal symptoms, and mental and physical health problems. Most participants highlighted a lack of alcohol harm reduction services and the potential of MAPs to address this gap for this group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the potential for MAPs in Scotland to prevent harms for those experiencing homelessness and AUDs, due to high levels of need. Future research should examine the implementation of MAPs in Scotland in a range of service contexts to understand their effectiveness in addressing harms and promoting wellbeing for those experiencing AUDs and homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Carver
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Tania Browne
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | | | - Bernie Pauly
- School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
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Edwards AC, Ohlsson H, Sundquist J, Sundquist K, Kendler KS. Socioeconomic sequelae of drug abuse in a Swedish national cohort. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:107990. [PMID: 32360456 PMCID: PMC7293925 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug abuse is frequently associated with negative sequelae such as reduced socioeconomic functioning. The extent to which these associations are attributable to a causal role of the disorder versus confounding factors that increase risk for both drug abuse and negative socioeconomic outcomes is unclear. METHODS Drug abuse cases were identified using Swedish national medical, pharmacy, and criminal registers. Applying Cox proportional hazard models, we tested the association between drug abuse and four outcomes: early retirement, social assistance, unemployment, and income at age 50. We used co-relative models to determine whether familial confounding factors accounted for observed associations. RESULTS In models adjusted for birth year, education, and early onset externalizing behavior, drug abuse was strongly associated with early retirement (hazard ratios [HR] = 5.13-6.28), social assistance (HR = 6.74-7.89), and income at age 50 (beta = -0.19 to -0.12); it was more modestly associated with unemployment (HR = 1.05-1.20). For social assistance and income (both sexes), and early retirement (women only), a model in which the association was partly attributable to familial factors fit the data well; residual associations support a partially causal role of drug abuse. For unemployment and early retirement among men, there was little evidence of familial confounding. CONCLUSIONS The negative socioeconomic sequelae of drug abuse are likely due in part to familial confounding factors in conjunction with a causal relationship and/or unmeasured non-familial confounders. Relative contributions from distinct mechanisms differed across socioeconomic outcomes, which could have implications for understanding the potential impact of prevention and intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis C Edwards
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Box 980126, Richmond, VA 23298-0126, United States.
| | - Henrik Ohlsson
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Family Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, CRC, hus 28 plan 11, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Jan Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Family Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, CRC, hus 28 plan 11, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Kristina Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Family Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, CRC, hus 28 plan 11, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden; Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029-6574, United States
| | - Kenneth S Kendler
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Box 980126, Richmond, VA 23298-0126, United States
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Giano Z, Williams A, Hankey C, Merrill R, Lisnic R, Herring A. Forty Years of Research on Predictors of Homelessness. Community Ment Health J 2020; 56:692-709. [PMID: 31858333 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00530-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Homelessness is a chronic public health issue in the U.S. This paper reviews the endurance and evolution of individual, youth, and family homelessness over the past 40-plus years. Thematic findings detail research on predictors of homelessness among adolescents, runaway youth, veterans, older adults, sheltered families, and female-headed families. Results provide a summary of contributors to homelessness, including issues related to family instability, unemployment and poverty, mental illness, substance use, unstable living arrangements, child maltreatment, social support, crime, and violence. Findings highlight key and persistent predictors of homelessness found across decades, as well as more recently identified and nuanced precursors to individual or family displacement. The goal of this work was to summarize what is known about predictors of homelessness to inform targeted research, practice, and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Giano
- School of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA
| | - Amanda Williams
- School of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA.
| | - Carli Hankey
- School of Child and Family Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, USA
| | - Renae Merrill
- School of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA
| | - Rodica Lisnic
- School of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA
| | - Angel Herring
- School of Child and Family Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, USA
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Parnell A, Box E, Biagioni N, Bonevski B, Anwar-McHenry J, Slevin T, Pettigrew S. Factors influencing the willingness of community service organisation staff to provide smoking cessation support: a qualitative study. Aust N Z J Public Health 2020; 44:116-120. [PMID: 32050298 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore factors influencing community service organisation (CSO) staff members' willingness to provide tobacco cessation support to clients experiencing disadvantage. METHODS Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 staff members from seven services in the alcohol and other drugs, homelessness, and mental health sectors in Western Australia. RESULTS The primary barriers to providing cessation support were believing that addressing smoking was not a priority relative to other issues, being a current smoker, and the lack of a formal tobacco cessation program within the organisation. Factors that appeared to be most influential in enabling the delivery of cessation support were organisational processes requiring staff to routinely ask clients about tobacco use, confidence to provide support, and being a past smoker. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of organisational procedures that include routine cessation care should be of high priority in CSOs to help reduce smoking rates among clients. Staff may also benefit from receiving training in the provision of cessation support and education about the importance and feasibility of addressing smoking concurrently with other issues. Implications for public health: The results may inform future efforts to increase the delivery of cessation care to groups of people experiencing disadvantage and comorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily Box
- Cancer Council WA, Western Australia
| | | | - Billie Bonevski
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
| | | | - Terry Slevin
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Western Australia.,Public Health Association of Australia, Australian Capital Territory
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Carver H, Ring N, Miler J, Parkes T. What constitutes effective problematic substance use treatment from the perspective of people who are homeless? A systematic review and meta-ethnography. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:10. [PMID: 32005119 PMCID: PMC6995160 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-0356-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People experiencing homelessness have higher rates of problematic substance use but difficulty engaging with treatment services. There is limited evidence regarding how problematic substance use treatment should be delivered for these individuals. Previous qualitative research has explored perceptions of effective treatment by people who are homeless, but these individual studies need to be synthesised to generate further practice-relevant insights from the perspective of this group. Methods Meta-ethnography was conducted to synthesise research reporting views on substance use treatment by people experiencing homelessness. Studies were identified through systematic searching of electronic databases (CINAHL; Criminal Justice Abstracts; Health Source; MEDLINE; PsycINFO; SocINDEX; Scopus; and Web of Science) and websites and were quality appraised. Original participant quotes and author interpretations were extracted and coded thematically. Concepts identified were compared to determine similarities and differences between studies. Findings were translated (reciprocally and refutationally) across studies, enabling development of an original over-arching line-of-argument and conceptual model. Results Twenty-three papers published since 2002 in three countries, involving 462 participants, were synthesised. Findings broadly related, through personal descriptions of, and views on, the particular intervention components considered effective to people experiencing homelessness. Participants of all types of interventions had a preference for harm reduction-oriented services. Participants considered treatment effective when it provided a facilitative service environment; compassionate and non-judgemental support; time; choices; and opportunities to (re)learn how to live. Interventions that were of longer duration and offered stability to service users were valued, especially by women. From the line-of-argument synthesis, a new model was developed highlighting critical components of effective substance use treatment from the service user’s perspective, including a service context of good relationships, with person-centred care and an understanding of the complexity of people’s lives. Conclusion This is the first meta-ethnography to examine the components of effective problematic substance use treatment from the perspective of those experiencing homelessness. Critical components of effective problematic substance use treatment are highlighted. The way in which services and treatment are delivered is more important than the type of treatment provided. Substance use interventions should address these components, including prioritising good relationships between staff and those using services, person-centred approaches, and a genuine understanding of individuals’ complex lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Carver
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, 4T26, RG Bomont Building, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Nicola Ring
- School of Health and Social Care, Sighthill Campus, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK
| | - Joanna Miler
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, 4T26, RG Bomont Building, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, 4T26, RG Bomont Building, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
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Magwood O, Salvalaggio G, Beder M, Kendall C, Kpade V, Daghmach W, Habonimana G, Marshall Z, Snyder E, O’Shea T, Lennox R, Hsu H, Tugwell P, Pottie K. The effectiveness of substance use interventions for homeless and vulnerably housed persons: A systematic review of systematic reviews on supervised consumption facilities, managed alcohol programs, and pharmacological agents for opioid use disorder. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227298. [PMID: 31945092 PMCID: PMC6964917 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use is disproportionately high among people who are homeless or vulnerably housed. We performed a systematic overview of reviews examining the effects of selected harm reduction and pharmacological interventions on the health and social well-being of people who use substances, with a focus on homeless populations. METHODS AND FINDINGS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Joanna Briggs Institute EBP, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and DARE for systematic reviews from inception to August 2019. We conducted a grey literature search and hand searched reference lists. We selected reviews that synthesized evidence on supervised consumption facilities, managed alcohol programs and pharmacological interventions for opioid use disorders. We abstracted data specific to homeless or vulnerably housed populations. We assessed certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Our search identified 483 citations and 30 systematic reviews met all inclusion criteria, capturing the results from 442 primary studies. This included three reviews on supervised consumption facilities, 24 on pharmacological interventions, and three on managed alcohol programs. Supervised consumption facilities decreased lethal overdoses and other high risk behaviours without any significant harm, and improved access to care. Pharmaceutical interventions reduced mortality, morbidity, and substance use, but the impact on retention in treatment, mental illness and access to care was variable. Managed alcohol programs reduced or stabilized alcohol consumption. Few studies on managed alcohol programs reported deaths. CONCLUSIONS Substance use is a common chronic condition impacting homeless populations. Supervised consumption facilities reduce overdose and improve access to care, while pharmacological interventions may play a role in reducing harms and addressing other morbidity. High quality evidence on managed alcohol programs is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Magwood
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Michaela Beder
- St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto Dept of Psychiatry, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Claire Kendall
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Departments of Family Medicine & School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Victoire Kpade
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Wahab Daghmach
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gilbert Habonimana
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Zack Marshall
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ellen Snyder
- Public Health and Preventative Medicine Residency Program, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tim O’Shea
- Department of Medicine, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Robin Lennox
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Helen Hsu
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Tugwell
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Pottie
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Departments of Family Medicine & School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Scholes G. Problematic alcohol consumption in homeless Australians: A narrative review of the causes, barriers to receiving help and possible solutions. Health Promot J Austr 2019; 31:279-286. [PMID: 31446632 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Problematic alcohol consumption (PAC) affects one-third of homeless Australians, and it is expected that the rates will increase as the population ages. However, current policy does not recognise the importance of this problem. The aim of this narrative review was to examine the social determinants and other risk factors contributing to PAC in homeless Australians, the barriers to receiving help and possible solutions for the Australian context. METHODS PubMed and PsycINFO databases and Australian government websites were examined for the keywords "alcohol" and "homeless," and pertinent articles were selected for inclusion and for citation tracking of further relevant articles. RESULTS The causes of PAC in homeless Australians are multifactorial, and multidirectional, and include risk factors such as low socio-economic status, mental illness and having experienced trauma. There is significant stigma associated with both homelessness and PAC, which further isolates this group. Current policies to address PAC in the homeless are inadequate; however, there are a range of possible programs to reduce PAC in this group, and international harm reduction strategies have also shown success in improving outcomes for this group. CONCLUSION There are numerous social risk factors that influence the development of PAC in the homeless. The introduction of harm reduction strategies, programs to enhance motivation and personal skills, as well as better mental health treatment, would all fill important gaps in services for homeless Australians with PAC. SO WHAT?: Health professionals can be advised that there are many social determinants that influence PAC in homeless Australians. There are important structural barriers to providing this marginalised group with the services they require; however, there is scope for the introduction of new programs, including harm reduction strategies, to meet the fundamental needs of this group.
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Fajardo-Bullón F, Esnaola I, Anderson I, Benjaminsen L. Homelessness and self-rated health: evidence from a national survey of homeless people in Spain. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1081. [PMID: 31399028 PMCID: PMC6688283 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7380-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, acute homelessness is commonly associated with complex health and social care needs. While homelessness can be understood as an outcome of structural housing exclusion requiring housing led solutions, the health care issues faced by homeless people equally require attention. A substantive evidence base on the health needs of homeless people exists, but relatively little is known about what influences the self-rated health of homeless people. This article presents new evidence on whether drug use (alcohol consumption, ever having used drugs), health variables (visiting a hospital once in the last year, visiting the doctor in the last month, having a health card, sleeping difficulties, and having a disabling impairment) and sociodemographic characteristics are significantly associated with Self-Rated Health (SRH) among Spanish homeless people. METHOD The approach applies secondary analysis to cross-sectional data from a sample of 2437 homeless adults in Spain (83.8% were male). Multinomial logistic regression modelling was used to analyse the relationships between drug use, other health variables and SRH. RESULTS Being male, an abstainer, having a health card and being in the youngest age groups were significant factors associated with perceived good health. On the other hand, ever having used drugs, having been a night in hospital, having gone to the doctor in the last month, having sleeping difficulties, having a disabling impairment and being in the older age group were all significant risk factors associated with perceived poor health. CONCLUSIONS These results help to improve understanding of the key factors that influence the SRH among homeless people. The findings can contribute to development and delivery of preventive policies, suggesting that interventions to reduce drug consumption and ensure access to a health card/health services, as well as enhancing services for older, female and disabled homeless people are all measures which could improve health and well-being for those who face homelessness. Effective housing interventions (e.g. Housing First or Permanent Supported Housing programmes) are equally important to underpin the effectiveness of measures to improve the self-rated health of homeless people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Fajardo-Bullón
- Department of Development and Educational Psychology. Faculty of Education, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Igor Esnaola
- Department of Development and Educational Psychology. Faculty of Education (Avenida de Tolosa, 20018, San Sebastián), University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Isobel Anderson
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Lars Benjaminsen
- The Danish Center for Social Science Research, København, Denmark
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MacKinnon K, Pauly B, Shahram S, Wallace B, Urbanoski K, Gordon C, Raworth R, MacDonald M, Marcellus L, Sawchuck D, Pagan F, Strosher H, Inglis D, Macevicius C, Strayed N. Health equity-oriented approaches to inform responses to opioid overdoses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 17:640-653. [DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-2017-003933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Impact of supportive housing on substance use–related health care utilization among homeless persons who are active substance users. Ann Epidemiol 2019; 32:1-6.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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A naturalistic longitudinal study of the order of service provision with respect to cocaine use and outcomes in an urban homeless sample. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2018; 27:611-618. [PMID: 28462748 PMCID: PMC6998995 DOI: 10.1017/s204579601700018x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Little is known about outcomes of drug abuse related to attainment of stable housing. This study examined outcomes of cocaine use and service provision in an urban homeless sample. METHODS Two-year longitudinal study of systematically selected homeless individuals (N = 255) in St. Louis, Missouri from 1999 to 2001. The sample was interviewed three times annually using a structured diagnostic interview. Urine drug testing was conducted at every interview, and service utilisation data were obtained from the structured interviews and the agency-provided service use data. RESULTS Cocaine use disorder and cocaine use proved to be distinct concepts because they predicted different outcomes across time. Cocaine use predicted subsequent poor housing outcomes, but stable housing had no apparent effect on subsequent use of cocaine. Service use predicted neither subsequent reduced cocaine use nor attainment of stable housing. Services used were appropriate to type of mental health need, but cocaine use may have reduced successful utilisation of appropriate psychiatric services. CONCLUSION These findings reinforce the concept that homelessness represents a complex phenomenon and consequently, service systems need to address multiple problems. Service approaches are needed that simultaneously address the complex needs of homeless individuals.
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Intersecting burdens: Homophobic victimization, unstable housing, and methamphetamine use in a cohort of men of color who have sex with men. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 192:179-185. [PMID: 30266002 PMCID: PMC6200602 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men with histories of homophobic victimization bear heightened risk of unstable housing and methamphetamine use. However, it is unclear whether unstable housing explains the link between homophobic victimization and methamphetamine use in this group. The present study aims to test associations between homophobic victimization, unstable housing, and recent methamphetamine use across 24 months in a cohort of men of color who have sex with men (MoCSM). METHODS Our analysis stems from data of 1342 person-visits from 401 MoCSM participating in an ongoing cohort study. We performed a lagged multilevel negative binominal regression to test the association between past homophobic victimization and recent unstable housing, and a lagged multilevel ordered logistic regression to test the association between past homophobic victimization recent methamphetamine use. We then performed a path analysis to test whether recent unstable housing mediates the association between past homophobic victimization and recent methamphetamine use. RESULTS Findings showed homophobic victimization associated significantly with increased odds of unstable housing (IRR = 1.70, 95% CI [1.35, 2.14], p < 0.001) and recent methamphetamine use (OR = 1.40, 95% CI [1.15, 1.71], p = 0.001). Mediation analysis indicated that past homophobic victimization was indirectly associated with recent methamphetamine use via unstable housing (OR = 1.06 (95% CI [1.01, 1.11], p = 0.010). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that homophobic victimization and unstable housing should be addressed alongside treatment and prevention of methamphetamine use in MoCSM.
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Asana OO, Ayvaci ER, Pollio DE, Hong BA, North CS. Associations of alcohol use disorder, alcohol use, housing, and service use in a homeless sample of 255 individuals followed over 2 years. Subst Abus 2018; 39:497-504. [PMID: 29595364 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2018.1449169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homeless individuals with alcohol use disorders have multiple comorbidities and therefore various service needs. Despite need for services, homeless individuals face numerous barriers to treatment. Little is known about the associations of specific services in relation to homelessness in the context of alcohol problems. The current study analyzed 2-year prospective longitudinal data on a homeless sample, examining relationships between alcohol use disorder, alcohol use, housing status, and service use over time. METHODS Two hundred fifty-five of 400 individuals recruited systematically from shelters and street locations completed 3 annual assessments (69% completion). Data on lifetime and current psychiatric disorders, housing status, and past-year service use were obtained and merged with service use data gathered from local agencies. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were created to predict dependent outcome variables of stable housing, alcohol use, and service use in both follow-up years. RESULTS Lifetime alcohol use disorder was positively associated with substance and medical service use. Alcohol problems did not hinder attainment of stable housing, and placement in housing did not necessarily increase risk for alcohol use. Stable housing was negatively associated with psychiatric and substance service use. In the second year, when alcohol use was finally associated with receiving substance services, it appears that these services provided a gateway to psychiatric services. The psychiatric services in turn appeared to provide a gateway to medical services. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use behaved differently compared with lifetime alcohol use disorder in relation to service use. Lack of association between alcohol use and housing supports Housing First policy. Obtaining housing may have ameliorative effects on mental health, diminishing perceived need for psychiatric services. Services may also be more accessible during homelessness. Obtaining substance treatment may provide a gateway for those who use alcohol after becoming homeless to connect with psychiatric and medical services, informing policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olubunmi O Asana
- a Department of Psychiatry , New York University Langone Health , New York , New York , USA
| | - Emine R Ayvaci
- b Department of Psychiatry , The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas , Texas , USA
| | - David E Pollio
- c Department of Social Work , The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Barry A Hong
- d Department of Psychiatry , Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
| | - Carol S North
- b Department of Psychiatry , The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas , Texas , USA.,e The Altshuler Center for Education & Research , Metrocare Services , Dallas , Texas , USA
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Parnell A, Box E, Biagioni N, Bonevski B, Coffin J, Slevin T, Anwar-McHenry J, Pettigrew S. Attitudinal and behavioural responses to increasing tobacco control regulation among high smoking prevalence groups: A qualitative study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2018; 38:92-100. [DOI: 10.1111/dar.12869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Billie Bonevski
- School of Medicine and Public Health; University of Newcastle; Newcastle Australia
| | - Juli Coffin
- Broome Campus; University of Notre Dame; Broome Australia
| | - Terry Slevin
- School of Psychology; Curtin University; Perth Australia
- Cancer Council WA; Perth Australia
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Bonny-Noach H, Ronel N. Everyday Substance Insecurity Among Homeless Injection Drug Users in Israel’s Largest Open Drug Scene. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0022042618791261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Limited attention has been given to Homeless Injection Drug Users (HIDUs) perceived need for illegal substances. This study assessed self-perceived illegal drug need in HIDUs based on their experiences. Observations and in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 11 HIDUs and with four treatment professionals. The findings revealed three findings concerning the unique experiences and perceptions of HIDUs: (a) Everyday Substance Need caused fear and anxiety, (b) Substance Need was experienced as more urgent than basic survival needs, and (c) HIDU participants attributed misunderstanding and denial of Substance Need to the authorities. It was found that HIDUs suffer from “Substance Insecurity,” which may be defined as the uncertain availability of quality substances (or their substitutes) and uncertain ability to acquire substances/substitutes and safe injection equipment in socially acceptable (or not) ways. Increased awareness of Substance Insecurity for HIDUs as a Substance Security First (SSF) model should be adopted.
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Karriker-Jaffe KJ, Witbrodt J, Subbaraman MS, Kaskutas LA. What Happens After Treatment? Long-Term Effects of Continued Substance Use, Psychiatric Problems and Help-Seeking on Social Status of Alcohol-Dependent Individuals. Alcohol Alcohol 2018; 53:394-402. [PMID: 29617709 PMCID: PMC6016698 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agy025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined whether alcohol-dependent individuals with sustained substance use or psychiatric problems after completing treatment were more likely to experience low social status and whether continued help-seeking would improve outcomes. SHORT SUMMARY Ongoing alcohol, drug and psychiatric problems after completing treatment were associated with increased odds of low social status (unemployment, unstable housing and/or living in high-poverty neighborhood) over 7 years. The impact of drug problems declined over time, and there were small, delayed benefits of AA attendance on social status. METHOD Alcohol-dependent individuals sampled from public and private treatment programs (N = 491; 62% male) in Northern California were interviewed at treatment entry and 1, 3, 5 and 7 years later. Random effects models tested relationships between problem severity (alcohol, drug and psychiatric problems) and help-seeking (attending specialty alcohol/drug treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous, AA) with low social status (unemployment, unstable housing and/or living in a high-poverty neighborhood) over time. RESULTS The proportion of participants experiencing none of the indicators of low social status increased between baseline and the 1-year follow-up and remained stable thereafter. Higher alcohol problem scores and having any drug and/or psychiatric problems in the years after treatment were associated with increased odds of low social status over time. An interaction of drug problems with time indicated the impact of drug problems on social status declined over the 7-year period. Both treatment-seeking and AA attendance were associated with increased odds of low social status, although lagged models suggested there were small, delayed benefits of AA attendance on improved social status over time. CONCLUSION Specialty addiction treatment alone was not sufficient to have positive long-term impacts on social status and social integration of most alcohol-dependent people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Witbrodt
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, 6001 Shellmound Street, Suite 450 Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Meenakshi S Subbaraman
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, 6001 Shellmound Street, Suite 450 Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Lee Ann Kaskutas
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, 6001 Shellmound Street, Suite 450 Emeryville, CA, USA
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Pauly BB, Vallance K, Wettlaufer A, Chow C, Brown R, Evans J, Gray E, Krysowaty B, Ivsins A, Schiff R, Stockwell T. Community managed alcohol programs in Canada: Overview of key dimensions and implementation. Drug Alcohol Rev 2018; 37 Suppl 1:S132-S139. [DOI: 10.1111/dar.12681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Vallance
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; Victoria Canada
| | | | - Clifton Chow
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; Victoria Canada
| | - Randi Brown
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; Victoria Canada
| | | | | | | | - Andrew Ivsins
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; Victoria Canada
| | | | - Tim Stockwell
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; Victoria Canada
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Sheltering risks: Implementation of harm reduction in homeless shelters during an overdose emergency. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 53:83-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Sidorchuk A, Goodman A, Koupil I. Social class, social mobility and alcohol-related disorders in Swedish men and women: A study of four generations. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191855. [PMID: 29444095 PMCID: PMC5812607 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate whether and how social class and social mobility in grandparents and parents predict alcohol-related disorders (ARDs) in males and females aged 12+ years, and whether intergenerational social prediction of ARDs varies across time periods. Methods The study sample included four successive generations (G) of Swedish families from the Uppsala Birth Cohort Multigenerational Study: G0 born 1851–1912; G1 born 1915–1929; G2 born 1940–1964 and G3 born 1965–1989. Two study populations were created, each consisting of grandparents, parents and offspring: population I ‘G0-G1-G2’ (offspring n = 18 430) and population II ‘G1-G2-G3’ (offspring n = 26 469). Registers and archives provided data on ancestors’ socio-demographic factors and ARD history, together with offspring ARD development between 1964–2008. Cox regression models examined the hazard of offspring ARD development according to grandparental social class and grandparental-to-parental social trajectories, controlling for offspring birth year, grandmother’s and mother’s marital status and parental ARDs. Results Disadvantaged grandparental social class predicted increased ARD risk in offspring in population I, although the effect attenuated and became non-significant in males after adjusting for parental characteristics (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.80 (95%CI; 1.07, 3.03) in females, HR = 1.32 (95%CI; 0.93, 1.89) in males). In population II, no increase in ARD risk by grandparental social was evident. In both populations, males were at the highest ARD risk if both parents and grandparents belonged to disadvantaged social class (population I: HR = 1.82 (95%CI; 1.22–2.72); population II: HR = 1.68 (95%CI; 1.02–2.76)). Conclusions Intergenerational social patterning of ARDs appears to be time-contextual and gender-specific. The role of grandparental social class in developing ARDs in grandchildren seems to decline over time, while persistent grandparental-to-parental social disadvantage remains associated with higher ARD risk in males. When targeting higher risk groups, continuity of familial social disadvantage, particularly among males, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sidorchuk
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Anna Goodman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm Unviersity, Stockholm, Sweden
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ilona Koupil
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm Unviersity, Stockholm, Sweden
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Romaszko J, Cymes I, Dragańska E, Kuchta R, Glińska-Lewczuk K. Mortality among the homeless: Causes and meteorological relationships. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189938. [PMID: 29267330 PMCID: PMC5739436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The homeless constitute a subpopulation particularly exposed to atmospheric conditions, which, in the temperate climate zone, can result in both cold and heat stress leading to the increased mortality hazard. Environmental conditions have become a significant independent risk factor for mortality from specific causes, including circulatory or respiratory diseases. It is known that this group is particularly prone to some addictions, has a shorter life span, its members often die of different causes than those of the general population and may be especially vulnerable to the influence of weather conditions. Materials and methods The retrospective analysis is based on data concerning 615 homeless people, out of which 176 died in the analyzed period (2010–2016). Data for the study was collected in the city of Olsztyn, located in north-east Poland, temperate climatic zone of transitional type. To characterize weather conditions, meteorological data including daily minimum and maximum temperatures and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) were used. Results The average life span of a homeless person was shorter by about 17.5 years than that recorded for the general population. The average age at death of a homeless male was 56.27 years old (SD 10.38), and 52.00 years old (SD 9.85) of a homeless female. The most frequent causes of death were circulatory system diseases (33.80%). A large number of deaths were attributable to smoking (47.18%), whereas a small number was caused by infectious diseases, while a relatively large proportion of deaths were due to tuberculosis (2.15%). Most deaths occurred in the conditions of cold stress (of different intensity). Deaths caused by hypothermia were thirteen-fold more frequently recorded among the homeless than for the general population. A relative risk of death for a homeless person even in moderate cold stress conditions is higher (RR = 1.84) than in thermoneutral conditions. Conclusions Our results indicate excessive mortality among the homeless as well as the weak and rather typical influence of atmospheric conditions on mortality rates in this subpopulation, except for a greater risk of cold related deaths than in the general population. UTCI may serve as a useful tool to predict death risk in this group of people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Romaszko
- Family Medicine Unit, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Iwona Cymes
- Department of Water Resources, Climatology and Environmental Management, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ewa Dragańska
- Department of Water Resources, Climatology and Environmental Management, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Robert Kuchta
- Municipal Social Welfare Center in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Glińska-Lewczuk
- Department of Water Resources, Climatology and Environmental Management, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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