The Overlooked Challenge of Idle Time in Homelessness and Addiction

One of the less obvious but significant challenges that can lead to substance abuse among individuals experiencing homelessness is simply idle time—the long, uncertain periods spent waiting for essential resources and next steps.

For those without stable housing, tasks like finding employment or obtaining legal identification can be overwhelming. The bureaucratic hurdles of applying for a residency card, social security benefits, or subsidized housing can be lengthy and discouraging, often requiring multiple appointments, case manager meetings, and extended wait times. Even something as simple as obtaining an ID without existing documentation can become a time-consuming and frustrating process.

While it may seem that individuals experiencing homelessness have nothing to do, the reality is that every moment of their day is consumed with basic survival—finding food, staying warm, and ensuring safety. Yet, the idle time created by long wait periods and bureaucratic delays can be immensely frustrating and stressful, often leading some to turn to substance use as a coping mechanism. Without a sense of progress or stability, the cycle of homelessness and addiction becomes even harder to break.