Young people in San Bernardino County who are in trouble with the law and are also suffering from mental disorders often find themselves in juvenile detention. Unfortunately, it’s not a place that can provide the kind of help these adolescents and teenagers need.
Experts estimate that from 40 percent to 70 percent of youth in the juvenile justice system suffer from some form of mental health disorder or an illness – anything from ADHD to full blown psychosis. About 15 percent to 25 percent have mental illnesses "severe enough to significantly impair their ability to function." [Source: Inland Valley Daily Bulletin]
The Department of Behavioral Health has implemented a new program aimed at taking better care of mentally ill youth. Called the Integrated New Family Opportunities program, it provides 24-hour case management and family support for after the kids are released. There is still, however, the issue of how best to care for kids who are still in the system.
Labels: mental_health, jails
Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton