Psychiatric Problems in Homeless Men. Lifetime Psychosis, Substance use, and Current Distress in New Arrivals at New York City Shelters

Psychiatric states in 223 men at first entry to New York municipal men’s shelters were assessed overall & differentiated by prior experience of homelessness. The majority of men had a history of mental disorder or of heavy substance use. One third of the men were in extreme distress & 7% reported suicidal thoughts at the time of the interview. Detailed findings are presented. (43 ref)