Comparison of social circumstances, substance use and substance-related harm in soon-to-be-released prisoners with and without intellectual disability

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The transition out of prison is likely to be a challenging time for prisoners with intellectual disability (ID). However, little evidence exists to inform interventions for people with ID making this transition. In this study we aimed to describe social circumstances, patterns of substance use and substance-related harm in soon-to-be-released prisoners with ID. We compare this group with those without ID, to better understand how the health-related needs of this group compare with the 'mainstream' prison population. METHODS: Data came from face-to-face, confidential interviews with 1325 adult prisoners in seven adult prisons in Queensland, Australia. Prisoners with ID were identi..