The comparative effectiveness of different models of permanent supportive housing on problematic substance use, depression, and anxiety symptoms over time.

Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of different models of permanent supportive housing (PSH), housing configuration, and service provision model on substance use, depression, and anxiety symptoms among residents over time. Methods: Linear mixed model regression was used with 888 residents of PSH to investigate the relationship between supportive housing type, service model, and housing configuration and change in mental health and substance use at baseline, 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-up. Results: There were few significant differences in problematic substance use, depression, or anxiety symptoms among those in different PSH types, different housing configuration models, or different service provision models. Similarly, there were no significant differences in PSH type, housing configuration, or service delivery model among those with severe mental illness (SMI), substance use disorder (SUD), or those with dual diagnoses. Conclusions: There is little evidence that different models of PSH result in differences in mental health and substance use outcomes. Future research should consider the number of services clients receive and critical periods in PSH residency in improving mental health and substance use outcomes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) <strong xmlns:lang="en">Public Policy Relevance Stetement—Results from this study provide little evidence that different models of permanent supportive housing (PSH) result in differences in mental health and substance use outcomes. Future research is needed to determine what kinds of services offered at what times can help PSH residents improve mental health symptoms and reduce substance use.