Addiction and Mental Health

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a devastating disease. The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a “primary, chronic and relapsing brain disease characterized by an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.”

Addiction Affects Everyone

Science has shown that addiction permanently alters brain activity. Despite every effort and best intention, addicted individuals simply cannot “just stop” — their bodies will not allow it. Over time, the resulting neurological impacts and behavioral complications begin to affect their interpersonal relationships. Life seems to begin and end with the opportunity to use. Their bodies become dependent, their spirits are shattered, and their loved ones feel the strain as they help them weather the storm.

Addiction and Criminal Activity Often Go Hand-in-hand

According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals, 80% of law offenders have a history of drug and alcohol abuse.
50% of jail and prison inmates are addicted during their incarceration.
Of drug abusers in the U.S. who are released from prison, 60% to 80% will become repeat offenders of a drug-related crime.
95% of addicted individuals released from jail or prison will relapse upon release.

Know That There Is Hope

Recovery from addiction starts with a single step. Once addicted individuals realize they need help and understand that there is hope, they can open the doors to a fulfilling, restorative journey. But, it takes a team to stand beside a person as they work toward recovery. It takes community and an outpouring of support from people who truly care and understand addiction. Those involved in drug court treatment programs are six times more likely to stay in treatment long enough to get better. That translates to greater potential for long-term recovery, reduced recidivism, and a smoother transition to community life.

Mental Health Courts

Without treatment, mental health conditions can linger or worsen, increasing the likelihood of further involvement in the justice system. To achieve better results for both the individual and the system, mental health courts were created. Mental Health Courts are based on the principle of restorative justice and are modeled after drug treatment courts. They provide comprehensive case management strategies incorporating partnerships with community-based treatment. Participants get treatment and services they need to become healthy and productive, with long-term results. FOR U is here to help ensure these strategies can be met when other sources of funding are unavailable.
No one chooses to have a mental illness, but we can choose to help them manage their illness with compassion and kindness.

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