Freedom Behavioral Health, Inc.’s Post

What an AWESOME program that strengthens connections among criminal justice agencies, behavioral health organizations, and the community to improve well-being for people with mental health conditions Ten communities join national criminal justice and mental health program to improve behavioral health outcomes https://jmhcp.org/support/ NATIONAL: Ten outstanding communities from across the U.S. were recently selected to join the Criminal Justice-Mental Health Learning Site Program for their innovative practices in improving outcomes for people with behavioral health needs in the criminal justice system. Through peer-to-peer learning and mentoring, these programs drive meaningful change with interventions that span the criminal justice system, including court-based, jail-based, reentry, and probation models.  #mentalhealthmatters #criminaljustice #criminaljusticementalhealth #jmhcp #supportivecommunity

“There’s a lot of evidence, experience, and common sense that police should not handle [nonviolent mental health] crises situations and fortunately there are a lot of communities across the country that are taking a different approach.” — Daniela Gilbert, director of Vera’s Redefining Public Safety Initiative #ListenNow: In Indianapolis’ downtown district, a new mental health team is responding to 911 nonviolent mental health calls. The new, clinician-led community response team has responded to nearly 100 calls since it launched this summer. Shifting to civilian-first responders can reduce the disproportionate numbers of people with mental health issues who are incarcerated or killed during law enforcement interactions. To expand the program and other similar initiatives across the country, sustained investment is needed. More police does not mean more public safety. https://lnkd.in/ec8eikxm

🤔 Many people in prison have severe mental health problems, but what is being done to help these individuals resettle when released? ⏳ Researchers from The University of Manchester led a trial of a release model based on "Critical Time Intervention" (CTI - providing a support plan in the lead-up to, and following, release from prison). 🤝 Prison leavers with mental health needs who were supported through CTI were more likely to be in touch with community mental health services 6- and 12-months post release. 🩺 While no magic bullet - as support is also needed within the community and health sectors - CTI could be one route to help reduce reoffending rates and ease pressure on public health services. 👇 Read more in this article by Dr Jane Senior, Professor Jennifer Shaw, and Dr Charlotte Lennox: https://lnkd.in/ejCiqhZ2 #prisonservice #prisonleavers #mentalhealth #publicpolicy #justice

September is National Recovery Month! According to the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), National Recovery Month began in 1989 to increase awareness around mental health and substance use recovery, promote new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, and honor providers and communities who make recovery achievable. CASES provides recovery-based services to thousands of New Yorkers each year through our behavioral health and alternative to incarceration programs, addressing the intersection of mental health, substance use, and criminal legal system involvement. This September, we recognize the critical work of service providers and community members do every day to promote accessible mental health and substance use treatment for everyone. #NationalRecoveryMonth #MentalHealthMatters #AlternativesToIncarceration [image description: Light blue graphic with a purple ribbon at the top. Beneath the ribbon is navy blue and purple text reading, "September is National Recovery Month." At the bottom left is a gray and navy blue CASES logo. At the very bottom is a purple bar spanning the length of the graphic.]

Challenges Presented by the Intersection of Mental Health and Justice: A. Stigma and Discrimination Stigma and discrimination against individuals with mental health conditions remain prevalent, leading to negative attitudes towards mental illness and those who experience it. These attitudes can influence legal decision-making and perpetuate injustices within the criminal justice system. B. Lack of Training and Resources Legal professionals, law enforcement officials, and other stakeholders may lack the training and resources necessary to effectively address mental health issues within the legal system. This can lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnosis, and mistreatment of individuals with mental health conditions. C. Overrepresentation of Individuals with Mental Health Conditions in the Criminal Justice System Individuals with mental health conditions are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, often due to factors such as poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse. This can create a cycle of recidivism and perpetuate the marginalization of already vulnerable populations. Opportunities Presented by the Intersection of Mental Health and Justice: A. Early Intervention and Diversion Early intervention and diversion programs can help address mental health issues before they escalate to crisis points, reducing the likelihood of involvement in the criminal justice system. These programs can also help individuals with mental health conditions access the treatment and support they need to recover and reintegrate into society. B. Therapeutic Jurisprudence Therapeutic jurisprudence is an approach to law that prioritizes the therapeutic benefits of legal proceedings and emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of wrongdoing. This approach can lead to more effective and restorative outcomes for all parties involved. C. Collaboration and Integration Collaboration and integration between mental health professionals, legal professionals, and law enforcement officials can facilitate the development of evidence-based policies and practices that address the needs of individuals with mental health conditions within the criminal justice system. #mentalhealthmatters #intersectionalitywiththejusticesystem

On World Mental Health Day, Police Association of Ontario President Mark Baxter recognizes not only those who have been killed in the line of duty but also those who have died by suicide because of the line of duty. Front-line workers carry the weight of harrowing calls and tough situations daily. In addition, they must also cope with the loss of their colleagues. With an unprecedented number of officers dying while serving their communities in 2023, it's clear that police personnel may require time to address their mental health, given the exposure to trauma. But many police workplaces still uphold policies that stigmatize those prioritizing their well-being. It's time to change this narrative and prioritize mental health support for all officers. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dPZggstn #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHeath

In today's evolving sociopolitical landscape, effective policing requires more than just enforcement. The latest #PoliceChiefMag article, “Hybrid Officers for Holistic Public Safety,” discusses a new approach where officers are trained to address mental health, addiction, and homelessness, creating safer communities through specialized skills and empathy. https://lnkd.in/gygtRPKt

❓ New Legal Q&A: Where a person is detained under 136 Mental Health Act 1983 in a Police Station front office, can you use Section 32 of PACE to search the person or would section 54 be more appropriate? 🔗Click the link to read more: https://lnkd.in/eZzeF5d4

Mental health treatment courts offer an effective approach to addressing the complex intersection of mental health issues and the criminal justice system. These courts prioritize rehabilitation over punishment for individuals with mental health conditions. One of the primary benefits of mental health treatment courts is the focus on providing offenders with access to comprehensive psychiatric treatment, counseling, and support services. This approach not only addresses the underlying mental health issues but also aims to reduce recidivism. You can learn more by reading our full testimony in support of SB 1370: https://lnkd.in/gxjb9-VP Image description: a quote from Empower Missouri's testimony in support of SB 1370 in black text reading “By addressing mental health issues within a supportive and structured legal framework, mental health treatment courts contribute to public safety and community well-being" with a background photo of someone offering a supportive hand #CriminalJusticeReform #MOleg #CriminalJustice #LegalSystem #MentalHealth #MentalHealthCare #Missouri #Testimony #EmpowerMOCJC

Policing comes with its unique set of challenges, often placing officers at a higher risk for mental health disorders. Despite this recognition, mental health promotion within law enforcement remains a neglected area. While mental illnesses among officers are not uncommon, seeking help for these issues remains a significant barrier. To address this, interventions are needed to combat the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement and emphasize the importance of seeking support. Proactive measures such as mental health screening, ongoing monitoring, and intervention programs are crucial for promoting the well-being of police officers. Practices like mindfulness and stress management can equip officers with the tools they need to navigate the demands of their profession. Counseling services tailored to address depression and other mental health issues among officers are essential. Additionally, implementing regional mental health policies and peer mentoring programs within police organizations can provide vital support systems. It's important to recognize the influence of police culture in shaping attitudes towards mental health and tailor interventions accordingly. By addressing these challenges head-on and fostering a culture of mental health awareness and support, we can create a safer and more resilient law enforcement community. If you or a fellow officer are struggling with mental health concerns, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Together, we can prioritize mental well-being and create a healthier environment for all. #larimarcounseling #larimarcounselingservices #femalecop #therapistforcops #therapistforpolice #traumacounselor #anxietytherapist #newyorktherapist #nytherapist #officersofcolor #legacies #newyorkmentalhealth#copsofinstagram #lawenforcementofficers #firstresponders #mentalhealthspeaker #upstatenewyork #newyorktherapist