Persons with major psychiatric illness in prisons--a three years study

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Mental Health Services in Correctional Facilities

Background:

• Major psychiatric illnesses are prevalent in prison populations.
• Lack of adequate psychiatric care in prisons impacts inmate well-being and rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and treat major psychiatric illnesses among prison inmates in West Bengal.
• To assess the impact of psychiatric intervention and rehabilitation on inmate functioning.

Main Methods:

• Screening of 3871 inmates using clinical and mental state examinations.
• Providing psychiatric treatment and rehabilitation over three years (2001-2004).
• Comparing Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• 10% (n=401) of screened inmates had major psychiatric illnesses.
• The majority of affected inmates were undertrials or housed for minor offenses.
• Significant improvement in GAF scores (p < 0.01) was observed post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• Operation Oasis successfully identified and treated major psychiatric illnesses in a prison setting.
• Psychiatric treatment and rehabilitation lead to significant functional improvements for mentally ill inmates.
• Qualitative changes in life situations were achieved for mentally ill individuals in correctional facilities.