mental health crisis

Peoria County Jail, in recent years, has restrained its charges for longer durations than other jails in Illinois and far past industry recommendations. There is evidence of a mental health issue in at least 70% of its restraint incidents.

More people in Greater Peoria and nationwide are beginning to broach the subject of mental health and the stigmas surrounding it. However, one demographic in particular continues to struggle. Not only are they struggling, but they’re rarely asking for help.

The Illinois Psychiatric Society has recommended reforms based on three mental health policy pillars: increasing equitable access, improving systems of care, and focusing more attention on preventing mental illness.

Law enforcement agencies and health centers in central Illinois are scrambling to address the opioid epidemic. DeWitt County Sheriff Jered Shofner says…