This document discusses the relationship between homelessness, drug abuse, and mental illness. It suggests there are two pathways: individuals experiencing drug abuse and/or mental illness may become homeless, or homelessness could lead one to drug abuse and subsequently mental illness. Childhood abuse and neglect are risk factors for both drug abuse and mental illness. Having a mental illness combined with substance abuse issues makes it very difficult for homeless individuals to escape homelessness. Understanding the complex causes of homelessness is important to address this issue effectively.