The Desert Sun surveyed 200 people experiencing homelessness in the Coachella Valley as part of a University of Southern California Annenberg Center for Health Journalism 2019 Data Fellowship. The survey focused on health needs and access to health care for those who are homeless, and Hensley is one of several people who self-reported struggling through substance abuse.
Of those surveyed, 55% reported they abused drugs and alcohol, while 44% reported they suffered from mental health issues — mostly depression, but also conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia; 31% of those surveyed had a dual-diagnosis of both substance abuse and mental health issues.
While free and reduced medical services are available for those experiencing homelessness in the Coachella Valley, many of the clinics don't include robust behavioral health care services or substance abuse services. Both those who are experiencing homelessness and those who provide medical care to that population said that is one of the valley's greatest needs.
Greg Rodriguez, policy analyst for the Riverside County Supervisor Manuel Perez, District 4, said a major challenge in the county is the lack of crisis stabilization housing and permanent supportive housing that includes wrap-around mental health and substance abuse services for the county's homeless population.
To read more Nicole Hayden's article, please click here.
Comments (0)