Integrated substance use rehabilitation in a secure forensic facility

The Journal of Forensic Practice,Volume 21, Issue 1, Page 50-60, January 2019. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to inform the development of an evidence-based and effective rehabilitation programme to address substance use disorders in a population of patients with severe mental illness and mental disorders detained in a secure forensic psychiatric facility. A clinical review identified a high prevalence of substance use disorders in the patient population at a secure forensic facility in Sydney, Australia with only a limited number of patients being assessed and offered interventions for substance use problems. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was undertaken specifically looking at articles between 2009 and 2017 that considered models of care or approaches to substance use rehabilitation in patients with co-morbid psychiatric disorders. Articles were considered based on their relevance to the purpose and the environment of a secure forensic facility. Findings The literature review emphasised the need for a cohesive model of care integrating substance use rehabilitation with mental health care. Comprehensive assessment and individualised approaches that incorporated patient choice and stages of change were considered essential components to any dual diagnosis rehabilitation programme. Practical implications The literature regarding rehabilitation approaches for those with severe mental illness and co-morbid substance use disorders was reasonably consist...

Source: Journal of Forensic Practice - March 12, 2019 Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: research