If any of these situations apply to you or a loved one, there are steps you can take to insure against a loss of housing. The following is a brief list of signs to watch for which may indicate that you or someone you know may have a substance abuse problem, which could result in homelessness. Drinks or uses drugs as a way to cope with stress, anger, fear, loneliness, etc. The substance begins to take priority over work, school, family, friends, and hobbies. Unexplained recurring absences from job, school, or appointments.
Bills go unpaid or are chronically late.
Overall withdrawal from society, friends, and family. Chronically borrows money and rarely pays it back. Takes a lot of sick time from work or has unusual excuses for absence or lateness. Falls asleep at inappropriate times and in inappropriate places. Begins to have trouble with the law or begins to participate in thefts from employer, family, friends, or businesses.