37% Of Homeless Adults In California Reported Using An Illicit Substance Regularly; About One-Fifth Wanted But Could Not Get Treatment

About 37% of adults experiencing homelessness in eight California counties who were surveyed from October 2021 through November 2022 reported that in the past six months, they used illicit substances three or more times per week. About 33.3% of them used methamphetamines, 10.4% used opioids, and 3.2% used cocaine. About one-fifth (21%) of those who reported illicit substance use three or more times per week in the past six months said they wanted treatment but were unable to obtain it. The survey did not report their barriers to obtaining treatment.

The survey included responses from 3 . . .