this link among substance abuse, mental illness, and violence relates to the design and implementation of proactive community treatment programs, including mandatory treatment. For example, the integration of treatment services also suggests the possibility of integrating treatment strategies that are mandated. Despite the increased attention now being given to “outpatient commitment” of persons with chronic mental illness, the significance of substance abuse and its concurrent treatment is rarely given specific attention.

Workshop discussions pointed out that incarceration has become a critical juncture for people with a mental illness and that interventions are needed to prevent their going to jail. The Institute could play a role by addressing some of the concerns that arise in discussions of this issue. Among these are such questions as: What is the most effective way to coordinate responsibilities among the involved organizations? How can potential problems be recognized early on by communities and schools? What community services or public health resources are needed to treat existing problems and to prevent their progression? How should integrated care be provided within the correctional system? How should we follow up recovered patients? With the appropriate, coordinated systems in place, perhaps troubled individuals will have a reason to feel hopeful about their future.