Log in | Sign Up

Illinois Prison Project Seeks Better Access To Mental Health Services For Inmates

Elyse Kelly
Save
Listen to the story

SPRINGFIELD – Prisoners aren’t getting the access to mental health services they deserve under the state’s constitution, according to a new report.

An independent court monitor recently found the same lack of mental health care access in Illinois prisons a previous ruling found unconstitutional five years earlier.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Over 42% of prisoners have a mental illness, according to the Illinois Department of Corrections, as reported by the Southern Illinoisan.

But they aren’t receiving adequate care.

Areas of failure found in the first ruling include treatment for prisoners placed on mental health crisis watch, those in segregation, and those prescribed psychotropic medication. Lack of staff and treatment plans and evaluation were also listed.

Article continues after sponsor message
Reach Your Local Community with Us - advertise today!

– Prisoners aren’t getting the access to mental health services they deserve under the state’s constitution, according to a new report.

An independent court monitor recently found the same lack of mental health care access in Illinois prisons a previous ruling found unconstitutional five years earlier.

Over 42% of prisoners have mental illness, according to the Illinois Department of Corrections, as reported by the Southern Illinoisan.

But they aren’t receiving adequate care.

Areas of failure found in the first ruling include treatment for prisoners placed on mental health crisis watch, those in segregation, and those prescribed psychotropic medication. Lack of staff and treatment plans and evaluation were also listed.

More like this:

Madison County Drug Court Reports Year Two Gains, Marks 30 Years
2 days ago
Raoul Joins 22 Attorneys General in Challenge to VA Abortion Care Rule
6 days ago
BJC, Aetna Reach 2027 Agreement For Illinois TRAIL Retirees
Nov 6, 2026
Duckworth Urges Congress to Expand VA Care for Veterans Exposed to Toxic Hazards
4 days ago
Opioid Crisis Continues To Take Toll on Madison County
Oct 9, 2026