Prioritize SUD Treatment Over Incarceration

Introductory Paragraph

More than half of the prison population in the United States, about 65%, is estimated to have an active substance use disorder. About 20 % who did not fully meet the criteria for a substance use disorder were under the influence of substances at the time of their arrest. Many of the individuals in prison for drug-related offenses and even those for other crimes, are not receiving treatment and have a high risk of reoffending once released. Failure to provide adequate and high-quality substance use treatment is not only detrimental to the individuals who are incarcerated but also has negative implications for their families, society, and the economy. Recent data shows a significant correlation between criminal justice involvement and substance use, highlighting the importance of identifying a different approach to the problem. Offering treatment to individuals with a substance use disorder should be a priority according to decades of the impact treatment has on an individual’s quality of life, reduced likelihood of recidivism, and future relapse. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has increased its efforts to find solutions and support to those who work within the court system, social workers, and counselors who provide services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system due to drug use .