Meeting the Needs of Those Persons With Serious Mental Illness Who Are Most Likely to Become Criminalized

Abstract

Persons with serious mental illness are a heterogeneous group. A large majority recognize that they are mentally ill, and they are treatment adherent, often able to work, and do not have major problems with substance abuse and violence. However, a substantial minority exists who receive little attention in the literature. They may not believe that they are mentally ill (the possible result of anosognosia), are nonadherent to psychiatric treatment, may have acute psychotic symptoms and serious substance abuse problems, may become violent when stressed, and may show less potential for recovery. This minority is at most risk for criminalization. High degrees of structure may help reduce this risk. They need a range of outpatient and inpatient treatment, including assertive community treatment, intensive case management, assisted outpatient treatment, structured housing, co-occurring substance abuse treatment, pre- and postbooking diversion, and available hospital beds. The mental health system can reduce criminalization by taking greater responsibility for these challenging persons.