According to the Florida Department of Corrections, the increasing number of inmates includes a significant number of individuals with what condition?

The growing number of inmates with mental illness is a significant concern within the corrections framework. This increase indicates a critical intersection between the criminal justice system and mental health care. Individuals with mental health conditions often face challenges in receiving proper treatment both inside and outside of correctional facilities. The environment of incarceration may exacerbate existing mental health issues, leading to a cycle where individuals not only struggle with their conditions but also face heightened difficulties post-release when transitioning back to regular life.

Moreover, the acknowledgment of mental health issues within the inmate population points to broader systemic issues regarding access to mental health services prior to incarceration. This underscores the importance of addressing mental health comprehensively, not only within prison systems but also throughout society to mitigate entry into the correctional system. Understanding this context helps highlight the necessity of mental health resources and interventions tailored for incarcerated individuals, aiming to improve outcomes during and after their time in custody.