This model for managing people with severe mental illness in a mega-jail setting can work in correctional systems of any size. Key components: collaborative teamwork between custody and mental health; population management of inmates with SMI that begins with classification; segregated housing that optimizes greater freedom of movement and socialization in support of mental health treatment; conjoint suicide/crisis prevention; and programming to promote self-responsibility without impacting staff safety.

Educational Objectives

• List the key elements of collaboration between custody and mental health
• Describe the advantages of dormitory-style housing units for people with SMI
• Discuss the challenges in the effective integration of mental health, medical, and custody

Level Basic