Overview
There is a clear intersection between homelessness, prison re-entry, and behavioral health needs. Research shows that being incarcerated in a prison increases a person’s likelihood of experiencing homelessness: People who have been to prison once are seven times more likely to experience homelessness than those who have not, while people who have had more than one prison sentence are 13 times more likely. Looking at the behavioral health needs of people coming home from prison, we find people in great need of continued treatment in the community. One-third of people in prison report a previous mental health disorder diagnosis. Data show that people experiencing homelessness have higher rates than people whose housing is secure of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Effective police outreach to the homeless community requires an understanding of community members’ unique life histories and behavioral health needs. The linked video panel offers the perspectives of peers, police, corrections, and behavioral health experts on the intersection of housing, health, and the justice system and recommendations for local partnerships serving people experiencing homelessness.
For a full transcript of the video, click here.
