“Prevention of opioid use disorder: the HOME (housing, opportunities, motivation and engagement) feasibility study”

Original research
by
Kelleher, Kelly et al

Release Date

2021

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

In the present study, we piloted an adapted model of Housing First plus prevention services that was tailored to the needs of young adults (18–24 years) experiencing homelessness in the USA.

Findings/Key points

The 21 largely minority youth represented a very high-risk group with marked rates of drug use and suicidal behavior along with few prospects for housing. By providing housing, utilities, SBOA and other preventive services, our sample was highly engaged in the support services, remained almost completely housed, and showed improvements in cognitive functioning and drug-related consequences in the short term. Total drug use trended lower.

Design/methods

Single arm study n=21

Keywords

Harm reduction
Wrap-around services
Social services
Outcomes
Poverty
Housing
Illegal drugs
Youth
Social benefits