The main objective of the present study is to estimate the prevalence of severe mental and
substance use disorders in homeless people (HP). The work was carried out on the basis of
data obtained from a representative sample of HP in Avilés (Asturias) (n = 100) using the
International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.). The results of our study reveal a close
relationship between substance use and homelessness. More than half of the HP have substance
use disorders compared to substance use problems in the general population. Psychosocial care
and the organization of a support network for the HP are discussed.
Authors
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Lorena Pallas Álvarez - 1 Department of Psychiatry. Central University Hospital of Asturias.
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Álvaro Díez Revuelta - 2 Area of Psychiatry. Faculty of Medicine. University of Valladolid.
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Juan José M. Jambrina - 3 Department of Psychiatry. San Agustín de Avilés University Hospital.
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Martín L. Vargas - 2 Area of Psychiatry. Faculty of Medicine. University of Valladolid. / 4 Department of Psychiatry. Río Hortega University Hospital. Valladolid.
Keywords:
Homeless people; prevalence; substance abuse / dependence disorder; dual pathology; Mental Health System in Asturias; psychosocial rehabilitation.