The prevalence of mental illness in young people in custody over time: a comparison of three surveys in New South Wales

Abstract

Few studies have examined the prevalence of mental illness in young people over time within the same jurisdiction. In the current study, we compared data from three large surveys of youth in custody in New South Wales, conducted in 2003, 2009 and 2015. We examined rates of mental illness, self-harm and suicidal behaviours, substance use and childhood trauma and found little consistent change over time, though some fluctuations were observed regarding certain mental illnesses and substance use. We also descriptively compared findings with observed rates for the general population and found that young people in custody showed higher levels of all examined variables. In sum, these data suggest little improvement in the well-being of young people in custody in New South Wales over time. Better identification and treatment of these issues are vital if young people are to be prevented from becoming enmeshed in the criminal justice system.

Psychiatric admissions in young people after expiration of criminal justice supervision in Australia: a retrospective data linkage study

“… 1 In New South Wales (NSW), 39%–63% of young people supervised in custody are diagnosed with at least one psychiatric disorder. 2 Previous research has demonstrated an increased risk of criminal justice involvement and recidivism among young people with psychiatric disorders. 3 The relationship between psychiatric morbidity and criminal justice involvement is particularly complex among adolescents, as they have high reoffending rates and sporadic incarceration episodes compared with adults.…”

“… 7 In NSW, the self-reported lifetime prevalence of psychiatric hospitalisations among young people in custody ranges between 13% and 17%. 2 Majority of studies that investigate mental health issues among justice-involved youth primarily focus on those in custody, often overlooking youth under community supervision. 8 These gaps in knowledge could potentially lead to interventions missing critical factors influenced by family and environmental contexts, resulting in suboptimal rehabilitation, worsening mental health conditions and increased recidivism.…”

“…1 In New South Wales (NSW), 39%-63% of young people supervised in custody are diagnosed with at least one psychiatric disorder. 2…”