Assessing Stage of Change and Harm Reduction Strategies for Synthetic Cannabinoid Use Among Individuals Experiencing Homelessness in Houston, Texas

• Published in: Journal of drug issues 2024-07, Vol.54 (3), p.444-456
• Main Authors: Celeste-Villalvir, Alane, Crouch, Cathy, Witte, Laura, Heads, Angela M., Weaver, Michael, Schmitz, Joy M., Isbell, Frances, Schick, Vanessa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Emergency services; Harm reduction; Health care expenditures; Homeless people; Housing; Strategies
• ISSN: 0022-0426; 1945-1369
• DOI: 10.1177/00220426231161284

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are low-cost substances that have been associated with adverse health outcomes and an increase in emergency department visits over recent years, particularly among people experiencing homelessness. This mixed methods study explored the connection between homelessness, SC use, and readiness to quit in order to inform the development of harm reduction strategies. Individuals (18+) residing in homeless encampments in Houston, TX with experiences of SC use were eligible to participate. Participants (N = 65) completed an interviewer-administered survey about their SC use. Most participants were Black/African American (65.7%), male (82.9%), and most (75.4%) reported using SCs to avoid positive drug tests. Many wanted to quit using SCs (69.2%) and already employed harm reduction strategies while using SCs. Organizations supporting individuals experiencing homelessness who use SCs should focus on reducing barriers to stopping SC use and increasing the availability of housing and supportive services.