Excessive alcohol consumption is closely associated with homelessness. Two-thirds of men living in the street drink alcohol excessively.
Harmful use of alcohol or alcohol dependence is a frequent cause of homelessness and contributes to its chronicity. Alcohol influences the lives of homeless people often from childhood and limits their social adaptability in adulthood.
Downfall to the street usually adds to their dependence on alcohol. After several years of homelessness, there is sometimes a reduction in the amount of alcohol consumed, but for a major change in life is usually too late.
Homeless people are unmotivated to be treated for their alcohol-related problems.