forensic mental health

Full Definition

Forensic mental health encompasses the provision of mental health assessment, treatment, and support services to individuals involved with the criminal justice system. This includes services in jails, prisons, courts, and community-based programs for individuals with mental illness who have legal charges or involvement. Forensic mental health services often address the intersection of mental health symptoms, substance use, and criminal behavior.

Usage

Usage note: Hyphenate when used as a compound adjective. Capitalize when part of a formal program name.

In Context

• "The forensic mental health unit provides competency evaluations for the court." — court liaison services
• "Forensic mental health services include pre-trial diversion programs." — program inventory