Start a New Chapter with Bakersfield CA Halfway Houses for Drug Addiction and Homelessness

Bakersfield, nicknamed “The Kern County Seat,” is a Californian city nestled in the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley. It’s a place that offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor activities, and historical significance. For art and history enthusiasts, Bakersfield boasts a vibrant arts scene with museums like the Kern County Museum, showcasing local and regional history. Yet, despite the captivating natural beauty and cultural wealth it boasts, Bakersfield, akin to numerous communities, grapples with issues surrounding the relationship of addiction from drug use and with some also facing homelessness.

In Bakersfield, California, the relationship between drug use and homelessness is a complex issue. About 38% of homeless people are alcohol dependent while 26% of homeless individuals are dependent on other addictive drugs. Bakersfield/Kern has made strides in service delivery, including outreach, emergency shelter, and behavioral health services. Major shelters in Bakersfield expanded or opened during the pandemic, lessening the rate of homelessness and drug use that potentially comes with it.

Halfway houses in Bakersfield are essential for communities grappling with addiction and homelessness. California halfway houses offer indispensable support to individuals transitioning out of treatment programs or facing the daunting task of staying sober independently. Envision a structured, substance-free setting where residents can connect with fellow peers on similar journeys toward recovery, all while benefiting from valuable guidance on effective coping mechanisms. This environment nurtures invaluable peer support, empowering adults to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by substance abuse and its impact on their lives.

What percent of homeless use drugs in California?

In California, homelessness and substance abuse are deeply intertwined. Studies paint a concerning picture, with a significant portion of the homeless population struggling with addiction. A 2023 study revealed that nearly half, or 45% of homeless individuals, reported current or past drug and alcohol use. This highlights a substantial need for treatment and support services. It’s important to acknowledge that these statistics are based on self-reported information and might not capture the full extent of the issue. Some individuals may be hesitant to admit their struggles, leading to underestimates.

In 2015, approximately 25% of all homeless adults in Los Angeles County had severe mental illnesses, including psychotic disorders and schizophrenia. Additionally, 27% had a long-term substance use disorder. A 2020 study revealed that a higher percentage of chronically homeless individuals suffer from drug addiction, severe mental illness, or both.

Homeless individuals face a high risk of overdose from illicit substances. These substances include:

• Alcohol Dependency: Roughly 38% of homeless individuals suffer from alcohol dependency.
• Drug Abuse: About 26% of homeless people abuse drugs.
• Opioid Overdose Risk: Homeless individuals are nine times more likely to die from an opioid overdose than the general population.

The relationship between homelessness and substance abuse is complex. Sometimes, substance abuse can contribute to losing stable housing, while homelessness itself can create a stressful environment that fuels addiction. This cycle can be incredibly difficult to break without proper intervention. These substances contribute to the challenges faced by homeless populations, exacerbating their vulnerability and making it even more critical to address the underlying issues of housing affordability and support services.

What is the relationship between drug use and homelessness?

Drug use and homelessness have a complex, two-way relationship. On one hand, substance abuse can be a major contributor to homelessness. People struggling with addiction may find it difficult to maintain housing due to challenges like job loss, strained relationships, and financial instability.  Their ability to manage daily tasks and responsibilities can become impaired, making it hard to hold down a steady job and pay rent. Addiction can lead to risky behaviors that damage relationships with family and friends, further jeopardizing their support system and housing options.

However, the relationship doesn’t always flow from drugs to homelessness. Sometimes, health issues or other hardships come first. These challenges, such as trauma, abuse, or lack of social support, can then lead to both substance use as a coping mechanism and the loss of stable housing.  People experiencing homelessness may turn to drugs or alcohol to numb the emotional pain and harsh realities of their situation. The constant stress and lack of safety can create a desperate need for escape, making substances seem like a temporary solution.

Without a safe and stable environment, it’s challenging to focus on treatment and maintain sobriety. This cycle of homelessness and addiction can become deeply entrenched, making it even harder to find permanent housing and break free from substance use. It’s important to remember that homelessness has many contributing factors, and substance use is not always a part of the story. However, a significant portion of the homeless population does battle substance use disorders. Understanding this complex relationship is crucial for developing effective solutions to address both issues.

What percentage of homeless people are mentally ill or addicted?

There are significant numbers of people experiencing homelessness who grapple with mental illness or addiction. A report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that around 21% of homeless people reported having a serious mental illness, while roughly 16% reported struggling with a substance use disorder in the United States, including California. It’s worth noting that these challenges can sometimes co-occur, with estimates suggesting that as many as 36% of chronically homeless individuals face one or both of these conditions. 

The prevalence of mental disorders among homeless individuals is significant. Studies conducted in high-income countries have found that approximately 76.2% of homeless people experience any current mental disorder.

The most common diagnostic categories include:

• Alcohol use disorders: Affecting 36.7% of homeless individuals.
• Drug use disorders: Affecting 21.7% of homeless individuals.
• Schizophrenia spectrum disorders: Affecting 12.4%.
• Major depression: Affecting 12.6%

However, it’s crucial to recognize that homelessness is a complex issue with causes extending far beyond mental illness and addiction. Lack of affordable housing and economic hardship are major factors contributing to homelessness. One way to help address the mental health needs of the homeless population is through online therapists in Bakersfield. Online therapy offers several advantages for people experiencing homelessness. It can be more accessible than traditional in-person therapy, as it doesn’t require reliable transportation or a fixed address. Online therapy platforms can offer flexible scheduling options, making it easier for people with busy or unpredictable schedules to attend appointments.

Changing Lives with Bakersfield CA Halfway Houses for Individuals Facing Drug Addiction & Homelessness

There’s a complex relationship between homelessness and drug use. It’s not always clear which comes first. Homelessness is incredibly stressful. People experiencing homelessness may turn to drugs as a way to cope with trauma, mental illness, or physical pain. These substances can offer a temporary escape from the harsh realities of their situation. People without a home often lack strong social connections. Drugs can become a way to connect with others on the streets, even if it’s a temporary and unhealthy connection. It can also be a way to numb feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

In 2020, statistics revealed that around 1.8% of homeless individuals were susceptible to substance abuse, whereas the figure was notably lower at 0.3% for low-income individuals with housing. On a single night, approximately 580,000 people experienced homelessness, with a significant portion of them contending with severe mental health issues or enduring chronic substance abuse problems.

Halfway houses in Bakersfield act as a vital link between intensive treatment and independent living for those recovering from addiction and homelessness. These residences offer a secure environment along with essential support and resources. California halfway houses provide a wide array of services, including counseling, customized programs, and access to peer support networks. These resources are designed to help individuals address the underlying issues contributing to substance abuse among affected communities. Taking the first step towards a healthier, drug-free lifestyle can begin by contacting a halfway house today. You’ll find comprehensive assistance waiting to support you on your journey to sobriety.

Resources:

[1] Statistics On Homelessness and Addiction – Addiction Group

[2] 90% of state’s homeless are local – The San Francisco Standard

[3] National Homelessness Assessment Report – SAMHSA