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Biggest Causes of Homelessness

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration suggests that homelessness can result from a variety of economic and societal factors. While many people may never think homelessness can happen to them, sometimes losing a home may sneak up on a person. Learning the factors that can result in homelessness may help with prevention.

  1. Foreclosure

    • The National Coalition for the Homeless states that 7 million households may risk foreclosure and end up homeless. Many times people get foreclosed on because they cannot pay the housing cost. This makes it difficult for them to rent an apartment if they lose their home.

    Divorce

    • Many times divorce leaves one spouse without a place to live. The Homeless Resource Network suggests that often the man ends up homeless. However, in extreme cases, the mother and children may also end up without a home.

    Death

    • A death in the family may cause homelessness. If the main earner dies and the family has no life insurance, the rest of the family may end up without a place to live. Obtaining life insurance will help a family avoid this problem in case of untimely death.

    Battered Women

    • Battered women often must choose between an abusive relationship and homelessness, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Many women cannot run to a family member's house because the husband will find them. The only option may involve taking the family to a shelter, of which many women do not want to expose their children.

    Drug and Alcohol Problems

    • Consistent drug and alcohol problems may result in homelessness, according to the Homeless Resource Network. An addict may choose to spend money on substances rather than pay living expenses, resulting in homelessness. Because an addict may also alienate his support system, he will not have anywhere to go if he loses his place of residence.

    Job Loss

    • Losing a job can happen to anyone. Even people with high-paying jobs may think they have job security, causing them to not set money aside for financial emergencies. Having a savings account may help aid in avoiding homeless if a job loss occurs.

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