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Action Area : Incarcerated Individuals
Jail inmates are more than five times more likely to experience mental health problems than the general public . 41
Many incarcerated individuals struggle with behavioral health or substance misuse , and frequently both . Some law enforcement personnel indicate that they can readily identify which inmates are in need of behavioral health services .
Additionally , many law enforcement personnel are also intimately connected and knowledgeable about the communities they serve and are often aware of individuals needing – but not getting – behavioral health care . One person reported that , when needed , they arrest these individuals specifically so they can receive help for their illness , as they may fall into one or more of the high-risk groups covered above who have a hard time accessing care .
While here we briefly cover the needs of individuals currently facing incarceration , the topic is covered in more detail below .
• “ Many prisoners were abused , and you need to treat the root problem .”
• “ Barriers to success of people when they get out of jail include accountability , transportation , and cost . They need enough resources to touch them while they ’ re in and when they get out .”
• “ Adverse Childhood Experiences ( ACEs ) 42 are played out in real life in front of me every day .” Examples of Potential Interventions for Stage 3
• Expand counseling services for incarcerated populations through telehealth options and / or additional contracts with local providers .
• Establish stronger MAT programs .
• Expand the Helping Hands program .
• Strengthen community partnerships to help people upon release .
• Ensure consistency of medications during incarceration , if applicable .
• Mandate drug and mental health counseling when individuals are incarcerated .
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