NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION DIVISION OF PRISONS MENTAL HEALTH FAQS AND INFORMATION PAGE

North Carolina Department of Public Safety

NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF PRISONS
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

MENTAL HEALTH FAQS AND INFORMATION PAGE

The content on this page is generated by persons like yourself who write to us and ask for correctional mental health information they have been unable to find elsewhere. While we attempt to group information into categories on each web page, this page has not yet been indexed because of it's ever changing nature. If you don't find what you need just E-mail us your question and we will endeavor to find you an answer.

Q: I am doing a report for one of my classes in school and I would like to know more about how many inmates are in your system, the kinds of crimes they have commited, and so on. Can you send me information you think would be helpful to me?

A: You can get the most recent information directly from our Research and Planning web page. I think you'll really like this location as it allows you to search for what you want and develop your own report tailored to your questions. Try it and see.

Q: I have a relative who has a mental health condition in prison. How can I find out if he is getting the services he needs?

A: Although this seems to be a simple request, information about your relative is considered confidential and cannot be given out without a release from him. When you call one of our mental health staff they will notify your relative that you are concerned about them and your relative can then write or contact you if they choose to do so. If your relative gives staff permission they may call you to discuss issues of your relative's case history. Many times you have information about previous mental health problems and treatment that will help us to better plan and assist your relative. You can always call us to give us information about your relative, but by law we are not allowed to disclose information to you without their permission.

Q: One of my relatives who is in prison is deaf. Are there any services for the deaf in prison?

A: Indeed there are. The Department provides interpreters to those who need them during medical clinics, during administrative procedures, and during disciplinary proceedings. Communication assisting devices and hearing aids (if your relative has any hearing remaining) are also available. In addition to services and appliances for the deaf, the Department also provides assistive services and equipment for any inmate who has a developmental disability and needs them.

Q: I was reading the Mental health services for developmentally disabled. I was wondering what kind of work programs are available for blind inmates? Are all inmates with disabilities given testing and what kind of tests are given? Are any other services available for blind inmates in a felony prison camp?

A: As coordinator of services for inmates with disabilities your question was referred to me for an answer. I am glad you asked that question. It helped me to see that more information needed to be provided about available services. Testing is waived for inmates with visual impairments severe enough to interfere with the testing process. These inmate do, however, receive specialized case management. They are also provided access to the N.C. Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. Should additional services be needed, such as mobility training, dark glasses, canes, etc. , the local Social Worker for the Blind is contacted for consultation. (Laura Yates, Developmental Disabilities Coordinator)