2003 – Dual Diagnosis In a Local Prison In Uk

Abstract

Aims

The prevalence of mental disorder and addiction in any prison population is higher than for the general public. Mental health in-reach and addiction services were developed to treat this complex population. We identified the need to evaluate the service provided in a local prison, and make suggestions for improvement.

Our main aim was to investigate the need for dual diagnosis services in a local male community prison.

Methods

Our data collection tool consisted of five parts;

1. 1) Demographic Data,

2. 2) Addiction problems and input received,

3. 3) Psychiatric diagnosis and input received,

4. 4) Physical health including medical problems related to substance use

5. 5) Other comments including risks identified.

The data were collected from the prison's patient record system.

Results

From the 134 inmates that were under the care of the addictions service in January 2012, 26 had a dual diagnosis (19%). From the dual diagnosis population, 24 inmates (92%) were mainly addicted to opiates. The main substitute prescribed was methadone (n=14).

The most common psychiatric diagnoses was schizophrenia (35%) and anxiety disorders, with or without a personality disorder.

Comments

We found a big proportion of the addictions population with a psychiatric diagnosis (19%). As both illnesses can be interlinked and affecting prognosis it is important that we treat both simultaneously. The distinction between addictions and mental health services can bring difficulties in communication and care provided. A dual diagnosis service is therefore needed to assure quality and continuity of care in prison and to assist smooth transition after release.