I really need someones help tonite.?

Question

My step-son needs mental help, he has Schizophrenia and other mental health problems. depression, drug addiction, learning disability, sleep problems, insomnia, ... Paranoid
But the problem is that he is in Jail and the state will not offer help if he is in Jail, because it is a state law. Now my real question is does anyone out there know of places, or Organizations that may offer help, my husband and I really want him to get help, but every where we turn it is a brick wall.

I want to add, that my step has a falony and it is a state law that if you are charged with this can't go in to a state mental hospital because they don't want to give hime care, and then him get sentenced to time.

Answer 1

Use his jail time as a way to start getting him off his drug addiction. That will help with the depression and insomnia. This will give you time to find a good treatment center for him.

Answer 2

I'll start by telling you that it's unlikely he currently suffers from that laundry-list of diagnoses. Psychosis (schizophrenia) cannot be the result of substance use or be better accounted for by another Axis I mental disorder (such as major depression with psychotic features). Depending on the severity of his learning disorder and sleep problems, he is unlikely to be suffering from all of the above. This is an issue of differential diagnosis, not co-morbid diagnosis. Nonetheless, I understand the main point, which is that he's severely mentally unstable right now and needs more help than incarceration will ever provide.

One would need to know both the true clinical mental status of your step-son, as well as the length of his incarceration. At this point, the legal system needs to acknowledge the fact that he is in more need of mental help than prison. You need a lawyer who can push for that. He may need to file an appeal. Not sure. I'm a therapist, not a lawyer. Once he's out, you can begin looking to the appropriate mental health services.

Answer 3

You should call the local news stations and papers and say how the state is denying mental health treatment to inmates, many times the people who need it the most. Draw attention to your story and make it a controversy and your state will surely cave or atleast make an acception to the rule for your step-son.

Answer 4

Get in touch with NAMI they can help. They have information on lawyers, treatment etc. You will have to make a lot of noise. Meaning go public. People don't understand mental illness and the majority are in jail without any treatment. Don't stop. Keep going you will be heard.

Answer 5

From what I understand, state law should require that your son receive medical treatment while he is in custody. Try the D.A.'s office or local rural legal aid type organization. I'm not sure of any places that might be able to intercede tonight besides maybe your pastor. People should pay for their mistakes to society but not like his situation. I'm not sure what else to suggest because I don't know who you've already attempted to contact.

Answer 6

He is now protected from the social pressures that made him ill. In a few years he will be like a new person. Remember depression is all about friends and family and having expectations that are not real.

Answer 7

I also suggest NAMI as well, here's their number
1-800-950-NAMI (6264), Hope it helps

Answer 8

This website looked really informative. I hope this helps! Good luck with your son.

Answer 9

Try NAMI. (National Alliance of Mental Illness.) they may have a website. I'm sorry I don't have a number to give you.

Answer 10

he need mental health therapy ASAP . call and talk to his Lawyer