The Experiences of Adults with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness and Long-term Housing

This paper examines the barriers that adults with a severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI) may experience when they approach securing and maintaining long-term housing. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAM-HSA, 2011), around 30% of persons who experience chronic homelessness have a mental health condition, and of that group 50% also experience problems with co-occurring substance use. This article utilized six qualitative interviews with service providers who work with this population and housing in some aspect. This study found that relationships between service providers and both landlords and clients play an important role in outcomes.