Health and Fitness

Report: 41% of Arrestees at the July 30 Cook County Jail Intake Self-identified as Mentally Ill


mental health advocacy
(GRAPHIC SUPPLIED)

Chicago, IL-(ENEWSPF)- According to Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, on any given day, between 25-30 percent of the inmates at Cook County Jail suffer from mental illnesses. The majority of these inmates are in jail for nonviolent offences closely associated with their mental health issues and would be far better served by treatment rather than incarceration.

The Office of Mental Health Policy and Advocacy leads Sheriff Dart’s comprehensive response to the criminalization of mentally ill individuals in Cook County.

How might we better serve those members of our society who are mentally ill?

The Office of Mental Health Policy and Advocacy maintains a 24-hour hotline:

(773) 674-2273

or

(773) 674-CARE

This hotline is supported by live team members – not automated voices. The hotline serves as a resource for families and friends of mentally ill detainees, allowing them to directly connect with OMHPA team members to communicate special needs and medications for their loved ones within the jail. Additionally, the hotline is open to former inmates coping with mental illness – providing counsel and resources to ensure that they get the treatment they need to sustain a healthy life and stay out of the jail.

Source: http://www.cookcountysheriff.org/


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