When released from prison, individuals with mental illness often face significant challenges in reintegrating into society, including difficulty accessing necessary mental health care, finding stable housing, and managing their symptoms, which can lead to increased risk of homelessness, substance abuse, and recidivism if proper support systems are not in place. Without adequate transition planning, they may struggle to follow their medication plan, navigate community services, and cope with the stresses of daily life. This may potentially lead to relapses and re-incarceration.
Key points about mentally ill individuals released from prison:
Many individuals with mental illness do not receive adequate treatment while incarcerated, and may struggle to find and access community mental health services upon release.
Due to lack of stable housing options and challenges managing daily life, individuals with mental illness are more likely to become homeless after release.
Self-medication with drugs and alcohol can be a coping mechanism for managing mental health symptoms, leading to further complications.
Without proper support, individuals with mental illness may struggle to comply with parole conditions, leading to potential re-arrest and re-incarceration.
Social stigma associated with mental illness on top of being a felon can further isolate individuals and hinder their ability to access support and employment opportunities.
What can be done to help:
Creating detailed plans before release that include access to housing, medication management, and mental health services.
Providing readily available mental health services, support groups, and job training programs specifically designed for individuals with mental illness.
Establishing strong partnerships between correctional facilities and community mental health providers to ensure a smooth transition upon release.
Supporting legislation that promotes access to quality mental health care for individuals involved in the criminal justice system.
I have an acquaintance that has ties to a mentally ill inmate. Upon our last meeting, he clued me in on how Tim is doing. Tim battles with a severe case of schizophrenia. He was released from prison, only to go back again and again. During his first incarceration at the Utah State Prison, Tim demonstrated great growth and determination to change his life and his overall thought process. Upon his first release, he struggled to find any support at all. He did not have the support of his family and friends because they did not know how to deal with him in his state of mind. His parole officer did not have his best interests in mind and only seemed to care about if he was using drugs and alcohol. He provided no support to Tim in areas of rehabilitation and finding a job or adequate shelter. Tim got caught up in drugs again and found himself back in prison. After his second release he found a job as a construction worker. It was a lot of long hot days but he found a sense of accomplishment and enjoyed the pay. His co-workers were a negative influence to him as they loved to party and use drugs and alcohol. Tim got caught up in the game again and subsequently robbed a liquor store. Back in prison, Tim shared with my friend that it was easier to be in prison than it is to be on the outside. He decided that the little bit of therapy and medication he received in prison was sufficient – he could get by. He felt that this quality of life was okay for him. “Three hots and cot.” As they say. I feel that Tim, given his situation, had some of the tools he needed to make it in society. He once had that hope and determination to do so. I believe that the system failed him. We can help make changes so guys like Tim have a fighting chance in life. I know of employers who give “second chances” to released inmates. I know there has been some legislation that aims to support those with mental illness. I think that we can have the mindset that criminals with mental illness need opportunities just as much as the next guy.
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