The history of inmates with mental illnesses
Yes, this is 21st-century America. Where we have better means to treat mental illness than ever before, but choose to let the insane people decide to get it or not. - Rich Lowry
Percentage rates of inmates diagnosed with a mental disorder
- 1984: An average of 6.4% of inmates
- 1992: An average of 7.2% of inmates
- 1998: An average of 16.3% of inmates
- 2000: An average of 20% of inmates (5% actively psychotic)
- 2003: An average of 20% of inmates
- 2006: An average of 24% of inmates
Inmates suffering from a mental illness need after-care once their sentencing is coming to an end. This necessary because when an inmate is released it's usually just handing them what they came with and throwing them back into society. The likely hood of finding a job is very low, an inmate will immediately have to live with a family member or a friend. Living such a lifestyle could leave any person feeling worthless and no hope for their future, it would be much easier to get re-arrested and have a routine that one is used to. Not knowing when their next meal is could be a scary thought when they know that they get fed in jail.