Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Use, and Criminal History Among Homeless Adults

As part of a survey of homeless adults, factors associated with their use of mental health services were analyzed. Homeless persons who had a previous psychiatric hospitalization were least likely to sleep in an emergency shelter, had been homeless longer, had the worst mental health status, used alcohol & drugs the most, & were most involved in criminal activities. It is suggested that diverse systems of care are meeded for homeless persons. 43 refs.