A significant number of youth in the juvenile justice system have mental health disorders -- an estimated 50 to 75 percent of incarcerated youth nationwide have a diagnosable mental health disorder. Current studies indicate that there is a lack of screening, assessment and treatment of children with mental health problems, and without appropriate treatment, youth with mental health disorders are at high risk of suicide and re-offending.

The "Fact Sheet" provides basic facts and an overview of current challenges in addressing the mental health needs of youth offenders. The "Programs" document provides examples of what's working and initiatives underway to document and address youthful offenders' mental health needs. The "Resources" list provide contact information for national organizations actively involved in advocacy efforts to address youth's needs, and the "Summary" highlights major studies that document the need to significantly address the mental health needs of youth in the community and in the juvenile justice system.

• Fact Sheet
• Summary
• Key Studies
• Programs
• Resources