Behavioral Health Programs
EUREKA SPRINGS ARKANSAS
THE OZARKS
INSURANCE COVERED TREATMENT
(800) 375-5725
Veteran Homelessness
Homelessness is one of the most difficult situations any person can face. Over 500,000 people in the United States experience homelessness, and on a single night, the number of homeless people in America represents nearly 0.2% of the overall national population. There are certain populations who are at a higher risk of homelessness than others — including military veterans. Although this disparity is declining, these statistics point to a concerning trend among people who serve in the armed forces. These individuals face significant challenges that contribute to high rates of homelessness, from military-specific risk factors like combat trauma to common issues such as substance abuse or disability.
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Veteran homelessness
Homelessness is one of the most difficult situations any person can face. Over 500,000 people in the United States experience homelessness, and on a single night, the number of homeless people in America represents nearly 0.2% of the overall national population. There are certain populations who are at a higher risk of homelessness than others — including military veterans. Although this disparity is declining, these statistics point to a concerning trend among people who serve in the armed forces. These individuals face significant challenges that contribute to high rates of homelessness, from military-specific risk factors like combat trauma to common issues such as substance abuse or disability.
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What Contributes to Veteran Homelessness
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Substance abuse contributes to homelessness among veterans and non-veterans alike. Approximately 38% of homeless people are dependent on alcohol, and 26% are dependent on other types of drugs. The rate of homelessness among veterans who have opioid use disorders (OUD) is 10 times higher than the general veteran population.
Misuse of alcohol and drugs alike can contribute to unstable housing, as well as other risk factors that increase the likelihood of homelessness. Substance abuse can lead to issues at work or school and among our friends and family, often resulting in job loss. Because addiction affects the brain and causes the user to become dependent on the substance, it is very difficult to break the cycle of addiction without professional treatment.
involvement in the criminal justice system
Previous incarceration is a major risk factor for homelessness, especially among military veterans. Approximately 50% of all veterans who receive homelessness assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are involved in the criminal justice system. In addition, more than 40% of veterans involved in the Veterans Justice Outreach program were either experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or in an unstable housing situation.
There are many reasons why having a criminal record contributes to homelessness. Many people who exit the prison system do not have a stable home to return to, and reentry programs do not always provide secure and permanent housing. A criminal record can also prevent veterans from applying for housing, finding stable employment, or accessing previous support systems.
Disability
Physical and mental disabilities also contribute to homelessness at very high rates. There is a significant amount of social stigma associated with disability, which can make it difficult for veterans to find jobs and housing.
About 55% of homeless veterans living in shelters have a disability. Out of homeless veterans receiving VA healthcare services, 28% had a chronic medical condition, 28% had depression, and 13% received a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis.
PTSD is one of the most common mental disabilities veterans experience — as many as 500,000 veterans who served in wars over the past 20 years experience this condition. PTSD can cause symptoms like flashbacks, insomnia, and night terrors, which can make it difficult to engage in daily life without professional help.
Resources for Veterans Experiencing Homelessness
At-risk veterans need support in a multitude of areas: physical and mental health care, substance abuse counseling, secure housing and regular meals, and personal and professional development. If you are a veteran experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless, there are many resources available to you. If you are at risk of or are currently experiencing homelessness, there are two hotlines you can call for help.
- The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: (877) 424-3838
- The Veterans Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255
Call Today
At Behavioral Health Programs, our services help you find your strengths so that you can develop a more positive self-image and the skills to improve your life during and after treatment. We work with other facilities and treatment professionals to provide the most exceptional care for every client that we enroll into our recovery program. You can contact our Admissions Team and work with our experienced staff members to come up with the best plan to help you achieve your treatment goals.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an addiction or mental health issues, Behavioral Health Programs, can help you enroll in a treatment program quickly and effortlessly. You can enroll in the program yourself or refer someone else for treatment through our admissions staff which is available to answer any questions and help to guide you through the process. Admissions staff members are there to arrange admissions for inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment, facilitate transportation to the treatment center, schedule an evaluation and assist you with insurance verification.
We Accept Most Major PPO Insurance Policies
Your Policy Could Cover Up To 100% Of The Cost Of Treatment
Contact Us
(800) 375-5725
Speak with a Behavioral Health Programs Admissions Advocate for details.