Substance use in prison: How much occurs and is it associated with psychopathology?

The present study assessed rates of substance use and symptoms of mental health distress of male inmates in two state-level prisons in the Southeastern region of the United States. Inmates (n = 103) completed self-report surveys regarding substance use prior to and during incarceration. Participants also completed the Symptom Checklist 90-Revised (SCL-90) to screen for symptoms of psychopathology. Results indicated that more than 50% of participants reported use of illicit substances during incarceration. Moreover, individuals who endorsed symptoms consistent with two or more psychological disorders were more likely to report higher levels of involvement with substance use than individuals who endorsed symptoms consistent with one or no psychological disorders. Findings show a substantial amount of use of illicit substances in the prison environment, and indicate a need for re-evaluation of substance abuse programs for inmates during their incarcerations.