Format
Scientific article
Published by / Citation
Carver, H., Ring, N., Miler, J. et al. What constitutes effective problematic substance use treatment from the perspective of people who are homeless? A systematic review and meta-ethnography. Harm Reduct J 17, 10 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12954-020-0356-9
Keywords
homelessness
substance use
treatment

What constitutes effective problematic substance use treatment from the perspective of people who are homeless?

Despite people who are homeless experiencing higher rates of substance use, individuals face barriers when trying to access and engage with treatment services.

This systematic review and meta-ethnography explores the view of effective treatment by people who are homeless.

Twenty-three papers published since 2002 in the UK, USA and Canada were included in the review.

Key Findings:

  • Participants of all types of interventions had a preference for harm reduction-oriented services.
  • Participants considered treatment effective when it provided a facilitative service environment; compassionate and non-judgmental support; time; choices; and opportunities to (re)learn how to live.
  • Interventions that were of longer duration and offered stability to service users were valued, especially by women.

From these findings, the researchers developed a model that highlights important elements of effective treatment as described by service users.