Dr. Jeffrey A. Lieberman correctly highlights the reality that the US mental health care system has failed many individuals. However, his assertion that violent crime offenders commonly have untreated severe mental illness is misleading. Following tragedies such as the murder-suicide perpetrated by Vester Lee Flannagan II (1), many like Dr. Lieberman inaccurately proclaim that these occurrences have a primary common denominator: persons with severe mental illness. Not only does this further stigmatize an already marginalized population, it also hinders progress in reducing violent crime. Our understanding of the elements that lead to violent crimes is evolving. However, it is clear that the risk factors for violent crimes are multi-dimensional (2), and addressing the needs of those with severe mental illness is not the sole solution to “halting the violence”.
In reality, severe mental illness accounts for less than 5% of physical violence in the US (3). On the other hand, substance abuse disorder is estimated to account for 34% of physical violence (3). …show more content…
Furthermore, among persons aged <45 years, those with the lowest socio-economic status have a 3-fold increased risk for perpetrating violence (2). Additional risk factors include living in an environment with high unemployment rates, having a lower level of education, and more social instability (2). Dr. Lieberman recommends the early detection and treatment of mental health illnesses in order to “intervene before the person’s symptoms disrupt their lives and society”. But many individuals are exposed to social injustices that threaten positive mental health and overall quality of life across the lifespan. For these persons, many of whom are at increased risk for committing violent crimes, it is not enough to improve our “failed mental health care
In reality, severe mental illness accounts for less than 5% of physical violence in the US (3). On the other hand, substance abuse disorder is estimated to account for 34% of physical violence (3). …show more content…
Furthermore, among persons aged <45 years, those with the lowest socio-economic status have a 3-fold increased risk for perpetrating violence (2). Additional risk factors include living in an environment with high unemployment rates, having a lower level of education, and more social instability (2). Dr. Lieberman recommends the early detection and treatment of mental health illnesses in order to “intervene before the person’s symptoms disrupt their lives and society”. But many individuals are exposed to social injustices that threaten positive mental health and overall quality of life across the lifespan. For these persons, many of whom are at increased risk for committing violent crimes, it is not enough to improve our “failed mental health care