Incarcerated youth face a critical challenge: meeting their mental health needs. Many enter the justice system with conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD that often go undiagnosed or untreated. These challenges not only affect their well-being but also hinder their successful reintegration into society. Addressing these mental health needs is essential not only for compassion but also for providing pathways to rehabilitation and preventing future justice system involvement. Prioritizing mental health support for incarcerated youth can break cycles of repeat offenses and offer them opportunities to build a positive future beyond incarceration.
This Section Highlights:
How to Use an Integrated Approach to Address the Mental Health Needs of Youth in the Justice System
This document outlines how to support young people in the justice system who have mental health obstacles. It points out that many youth in the system have these challenges but often don't get the right help. It suggests working together with families, schools, police, lawyers, and judges to identify mental health problems early and to provide the right support. Instead of sending youth to jail, the document recommends using programs like mental health courts or community support options to give them the help they need. This approach aims to improve outcomes for youth and reduce recidivism.Â