Mental Health Director Michigan Department of Corrections Grand Rapids, Michigan
Session Description: There is a broad understanding that high percentages of individuals involved in our justice systems have experienced serious lifetime trauma, in particular during their formative childhood years. The effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) impact people throughout all areas of life and can significantly compromise their ability to recover from significant life events, substance use disorders, and mental illness, as well as making it difficult to access services and increasing the likelihood of getting involved in the criminal justice system. We will discuss in detail how a cycle of violence is perpetuated by trauma, the relevance of ACEs with justice involvement, real life examples of trauma and effective treatment, and how we can work together to reduce recidivism. Partnerships across and between corrections and community systems that link individuals to care will be highlighted. Being informed about these trauma issues, their prevalence, and effective approaches to care will improve lives and reduce the cycles of crime and violence that affect us all.
Learning Objectives:
After this activity participants should be able to
1. Discuss and describe how Adverse Childhood Experiences and lifetime trauma may result in problematic behavior, poor relationships and justice involvement.
2. List 4 things that people who are facing mental health and criminal justice issues need in their interactions with helpers and authorities.
3. Describe how trauma relates to severe behavioral problems, mental illness, and substance use disorders
