Mental health services for federally-sentenced women
Women are more likely to have a diagnosis of a major psychiatric disorder than men. They are also approximately twice as likely as men to suffer from depression. Research shows that incarcerated women have a significantly higher incidence of mental disorders than women in the broader societal population.
These disorders include:
- schizophrenia
- major depression
- substance use disorders
- psychosexual dysfunction
- anti-social personality disorders
CSC’s continuum of care
Correctional Service Canada (CSC) uses a mental health continuum of care strategy to address the mental health needs of federally-sentenced women. It emphasizes that mental health strategies should:
- focus on wellness
- be women-centred
- encourage their participation
- use the least restrictive measures possible
For more information on CSC’s mental health strategies visit:
CSC routinely screens federally-sentenced women offenders at intake to identify those who may need a more comprehensive assessment/intervention. CSC:
- houses minimum or medium-security women with mental health needs and/or cognitive limitations in structured living environments
- helps women with extra mental health needs (regardless of their security level classification) at the Regional Psychiatric Centre.
Specialized mental health programming for federally-sentenced women
CSC offers a mental health program, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), specifically to federally-sentenced women. It is an intensive treatment for people who have great difficulty regulating their emotions and behaviours. DBT offers:
- skills training sessions
- 24-hour coaching
- treatment team consultations
- sessions with a clinician