Jail linkage assertive community treatment services for individuals with mental illnesses

Persons with mental illnesses who are released from jail or prison are at high risk of psychiatric decompensation and re-arrest. This paper describes an ACT jail linkage program for this population that won an American Psychiatric Association Gold Award (2001). Based on interviews with its first 24 participants, we illustrate how they experience factors that contribute to recidivism and decompensation. Pre- and post-data are examined to explore program outcomes. Results suggest that it is possible to identify, engage, and retain people in treatment who struggle with many risk factors. We conclude that this program should be expanded and replicated.