OBJECTIVE: People with mental illness should live independently in the community. This study analyzed the housing situation and the use and need of psychiatric housing facilities of people with severe mental illness.

METHODS: Data from a cross-sectional study with 397 people with severe mental illness from two Bavarian districts were used and analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS: 70% of the patients live independently. 6% use supported housing or residential care. 25% of the participants have housing needs, but 39% of them do not receive adequate help. Most of the patients are familiar with supported housing or residential care and find these helpful.

CONCLUSION: Most patients live in a housing situation that meets the social norm. However, some patients have an unresolved housing problem. The use of supported housing or residential care is helpful, but is rarely used.