Over 2 million people jailed in the US have a mental illness

There is an estimated 45.6 million people in the United States suffering from a mental health condition. Of the 45.6 million who have a mental illness over 2 million a year are jailed rather than treated for their illness. The majority of people who have a mental illness and are serving time in jail have committed misdemeanors or non-violent crimes.

Many of these individuals upon entering jail receive little to no treatment for their condition and end up being worse rather than better upon leaving jail and they are often taken advantage of and victimized.

Not only are the mentally ill being taken to jail rather than receiving treatment in some instances, they also account for 25% of fatal shootings by law enforcement.

On July 5th, 2020 Kevin Ruffin,23,who was known to have a mental health condition, was shot and killed by the police in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, after wielding 2 knives at the officers.

While I understand the police had to do something to stop him, I don’t believe shooting and killing him was the answer, if they had to shoot him I believe they could’ve shot to injure instead of shoot to kill. I also believe more police training needs to be had and include more detailed knowledge of how to help people with a mental illness.

In July of 2005, I was in the middle of my own mental health crisis. I was yelling at people walking down the street, I was in the middle of a psychosis. At no time did I approach these people or get near them however, when the police came to ask me questions they acted very roughly with me, throwing me up against the police car and taking me to jail. They could see I had no weapons, or record of any kind. Not once did they ask if I had a mental illness, or who they could call. They took me to jail, charging me with aggravated assault although I didn’t assault anyone. Once in jail it was some time before I received any type of medication, there was no kindness or care while there. It was a true nightmare. We later found out the officer that arrested me had only been on the force 3 months. I eventually had the charges set aside and thankfully with the help of my loved ones I got the help I needed.

I pray in my lifetime there will be more understanding by all for people with a mental health condition, even today with enlightenment on so many taboo situations, mental illness is still met with fear, ignorance, and lack of empathy. Not only by the police but by the public in general.

We can do our part by educating ourselves on the subject or talking with someone who has dealt with a serious mental illness.

If you or someone you care about is struggling right now please contact the National Suicide Lifeline.