[Where are we going? The forced deinstitutionalization is a double-edged sword]

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Social Policy

Background:

• Italy's judicial and jail system crisis has driven deinstitutionalization since 2008.
• This has led to the closure of Judicial Psychiatric Hospitals and release of drug offenders.
• Many released individuals have co-occurring mental health disorders.

Discussion:

• A significant gap exists in managing deinstitutionalized individuals with mental health issues.
• The current system inadequately supports this vulnerable population.
• Lack of specialized facilities exacerbates the problem.

Key Insights:

• Deinstitutionalization policies in Italy have unintended consequences for mentally ill offenders.
• There's an urgent need for effective support structures.
• The release of individuals with mental disorders requires tailored management strategies.

Outlook:

• Development of integrated social policies is crucial.
• New structures are needed for the care of this complex population.
• Failure to act risks leaving individuals without necessary support and treatment.