Reports reveal an increase in the number of individuals with serious mental illness in jails, prisons and forensic hospitals. Despite the wide-ranging and devastating consequences of this 'criminalization' of mental illness, there remains a lack of information on the subject as well as on the provision of care for these patients. This important new book fills a gap in the literature by examining topics such as: the history and policy factors related to criminalization; original research on forensic populations; pharmacological and psychological treatment strategies; and principles and guidelines for diversion out of the criminal justice system.
Developing Policies for Adult Sexual Minorities with Mental Health Needs in Secured Settings
Juan Carlos Arguello
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) people, are more likely to be disproportionally placed in a secured setting.1 Secured settings such as jails, prisons, and forensic hospitals can be traumatizing, hostile, and dangerous – especially for those who are transgender,2 which is only compounded when responsive and appropriate policies, procedures, and training are not in place to maintain safety, privacy, and dignity. All LGBT residents, and more importantly those suffering from mental illness, who are in secured environments should be free of discrimination, victimization, and abuse. They should have equal access to safe housing, vocational programs, rehabilitation services, as well as medical and mental health treatments. Many organizations such as National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE), National Institute of Corrections (NIC), the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), and The Joint Commission (TJC) provide guidelines to ensure that LGBT residents are protected. This article provides a general roadmap for developing LGBT policies in secured settings synergizing the recommendations of these organizations with emphasis on policy guidelines for transgender people that are not only standards for good care but also very cost-effective interventions that can help reduce symptoms of mental illness for this population.