The opioid epidemic is running rampant throughout the world and is forcing people to suffer in silence. The effects of opioids on the brain can be so addictive that many people will do whatever they can do to get more of them. People will risk their lives, commit theft, and act violently to chase the high that opioids give them. In their minds, the difference between getting the substance or not is life versus death.
One of the populations that suffer the greatest from opioid abuse is those in jail. The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world, as well as the greatest number of people detained in its criminal legal system. Studies have found that nearly two-thirds of incarcerated persons have a history of substance use disorder and individuals who are incarcerated are a vulnerable population that frequently does not have the resources they need.
What Happens During Incarceration
During their time in prison, many untreated inmates will experience a reduced tolerance to opioids because they have stopped using drugs while incarcerated. Upon release, many will return to levels of use similar to what they used before incarceration, not realizing their bodies can no longer tolerate the same doses, increasing their risk of overdose and death.
That is why treatment during jail time can prove to be the most necessary. Inmates may be facing an untreated and unmedicated mental illness. They may have been through trauma, homelessness, or abuse. Whatever the case, treatment for opioid abuse is incredibly complicated with our incarcerated population. So how are opioid addictions treated in jail, and how can we change treatment to make it more effective?
Unstable Stays
Jails and prisons face uncertainty about the length of a person’s stay. This is one of the biggest challenges when addressing opioid addiction. Trials and court dates take weeks and months to plan and prepare. On top of the stress of court, many people may not know the exact date they are going to jail. For those with opioid addiction, structure is a must for ensuring recovery since instability is one of the most prevalent factors in opioid addiction and relapse.
Unmonitored Medications
Treatment initiation and planning becomes complicated when incarcerated. Treatment within prisons may be more predictable, but current laws governing the prescription and dispensing of buprenorphine and methadone (withdrawal medication management) create unique challenges to treating opioid use disorder (OUD) in prisons. Without clinical supervision, there could be adverse effects and severe withdrawal symptoms. Also, medications for safe withdrawal may be traded and mixed illegally with other medications in jails. Individuals could damage their health permanently without proper addiction care.
Treating individuals with addiction increases pressure on staff. Staff must arrange transportation or deal with inmates who are physically ill due to inadequate treatment of opioid use disorder. Staff members need to be properly equipped and educated to address this population, and they need to be paid accordingly. This disease must be monitored and individuals need to be screened for addiction before ever entering prison.
Larger Institutions
Some larger correctional institutions have become licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Fortunately, those that receive treatment during their jail time are likely to continue treatment once they leave. There are means of withdrawal management and supportive treatment medications available. Once someone has begun the withdrawal process safely, the mind becomes clearer and can rationalize recovery.
What Effective Treatment Looks Like
Individuals that are in prison need constant support and hope. Despite their predicament, every person is deserving of quality treatment. Effective treatment requires more than just medications for withdrawal treatment. A true, effective treatment uses behavioral therapy, which helps manage triggers and stress. Treatment includes withdrawal medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
Complete check-in services are beneficial for inmates that find themselves struggling with life in jail. However, life after jail is one of the most prominent times for opioid overdose or relapse. There must be some follow-up with the inmates once they leave the criminal justice system. This could include housing assistance or group homes for individuals that are alone or without jobs. Another critical point for effective treatment is opioid education. Education about the dangers of opioids should be taught in jails or as a part of community service.
There are ways to treat opioid addiction in jails. The community must come together for united support for our incarcerated population so they can get clean and stop repeating the cycle of addiction and crime to perpetuate their habit. With continued support, we can begin to construct a system that treats inmates for addiction and releases them better than they went in. There must be structured stays, monitored medications, and well-equipped staff.
The population that suffers the greatest from opioid use are those in jail. Of course, prison is not typically viewed as the best place for recovery, but it can be. Jails can become a place where opioid addicts are supported and treated properly so they can live full, healthy lives. Our incarcerated population deserves effective treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing opioid addiction, there is support available for you. You are not alone during this journey. At Rancho Milagro, we provide holistic treatment to help you renew yourself and feel your best again. If you are interested in recovery, call Rancho Milagro at (951) 526-4582. We promote a vision of power in hope and peace in healing. At our facility, we have acres of farmland that creates a tranquil environment for recovery. We have supportive, extensively-educated staff determined to create a treatment for your unique needs.