Abstract

The provision of mental health services in American jails and prisons highlights the prevalence of mental illnesses and substance use disorders (SUD) among inmates. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 65% of prisoners have an active SUD. Although addiction treatment is effective in improving outcomes and reducing crime and recidivism, SUD treatment in correctional facilities remains inconsistent, and few incarcerated individuals receive it. Opioids accounted for 14.8% of deaths among former prisoners between 1999 and 2009. Without robust support, released prisoners, especially those with opioid use disorder, often revert to previous drug use levels.

The New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC) provides vital services to court-involved individuals, including legal aid, addiction treatment, housing, and job training. Literature review suggests that, compared to many other chronic conditions, addiction is more effectively treated. NJRC addresses this by connecting participants to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs, which combine medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, leading to improved outcomes and reduced relapse rates. In 2022, NJRC provided 10,492 instances of addiction treatment, highlighting the significant need for addiction support among justice-involved individuals.

The link between addiction and incarceration underscores the need for integrated prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies. NJRC's initiatives support lasting recovery, minimize relapse, and improve treatment outcomes. Addressing this interplay can help break the addiction cycle and reduce incarceration's impact on individuals and communities.