Decriminalization of the Mentally Ill

NAMI Board Advocates for Decriminalizing Mental Illness
In a move designed to draw attention to the critical problem of criminalization of people with mental illnesses, the NAMI National Board of Directors has released a report calling for more jail diversion, improved services for people at risk of criminal justice involvement, and better collaboration between criminal justice and mental health professionals. The report, entitled "Decriminalizing Mental Illness: Background and Recommendations," provides a concise analysis of the history and scope of criminalization, and includes public policy recommendations to address these critical problems. Go online to access the full report and an executive summary.