Short- and long-term outcomes of mental health court participants by psychiatric diagnosis

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The goal of mental health courts (MHCs) is to decrease incarceration and recidivism while increasing continuity of mental health treatment. Although previous research has found positive outcomes, questions remain unanswered regarding the population for which MHCs work best. No studies have assessed potential differences in MHC outcomes by psychiatric diagnosis. This study filled the gap by addressing the following research question: Are there differences in short-term program outcomes and in long-term recidivism and mental health engagement outcomes by psychiatric diagnosis?

METHODS: The study was a cross-site evaluation of eight MHCs in a single state. To assess long-term outcomes, this study analyzed data from participants who had been discharged from an MHC for at least one year (N=234). Four diagnostic categories were used: bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and "other" disorder. Demographic, programmatic, recidivism, and mental health treatment data for each individual were collected from state administrative agencies.

RESULTS: The findings suggest no differences by diagnosis in short-term outcomes or recidivism; however, significant reductions in use of high-intensity mental health services were noted for individuals with schizophrenia.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings support inclusive eligibility for MHC participation across diagnostic categories and should inform policy and practice in regard to MHC development and operation. Future research should examine other key characteristics to determine ways in which resources can be best utilized.