Professional Training

Congress should provide federal incentives for the education and training of criminal legal system employees on mental health and substance use disorder (MH/SUD) signs, which should include the practice of occasional screenings on MH/SUD and suicide risk.[1][2][3]

Federal entities that have oversight of agencies with essential workers, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, should include resources, funding, and guidance for mental health, emotional stress, and trauma support in Continuity of Operations Plans.[1]

Evidence-based screening, assessment, and treatment, including psychosocial and pharmacological treatments, should be adopted in jails and prisons. Correctional officers should be trained on de-escalation and safety measures in situations involving an inmate in a mental health crisis. To improve the care within jails and prisons, the Department of Justice (DOJ) should issue guidance and model policies and practices for state and local governments, as well as implement such policies and practices within federal facilities.[1]

Congress should pass legislation like the Strengthen Kids’ Mental Health Now Act to increase community-based provider rates and expand the capacity and availability of pediatric mental health services.