Wet Housing: A New Approach to Helping Homeless Alcoholics
Chronically homeless people with alcohol problems are very capable of making positive changes in their lives if they're given the same chance as the rest of us, and getting that chance really starts with having a home.
Picture this: a place where homeless alcoholics can live without the pressure to quit drinking cold turkey. In this episode of Harm Reduction Radio, host Kenneth Anderson sits down with Susan Collins Ph.D. from the University of Washington to discuss her groundbreaking research on wet housing. Unlike traditional programs that demand sobriety, wet housing allows residents to drink on-site, and guess what? It actually helps them reduce their alcohol consumption over time.
Collins’ studies reveal that homeless individuals in wet housing drink significantly less compared to those on the streets. This episode dives into the nitty-gritty of why this approach works, highlighting the cost savings for cities and the psychological benefits for residents. Ever wondered how early alcohol use contributes to dependence or how human connection can be a game-changer in recovery?
This episode covers it all, including insights into harm reduction techniques for treating alcohol withdrawal and heartwarming stories from wet housing residents. If you're curious about innovative solutions to chronic homelessness and addiction, this conversation offers a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo.