Stigma in forensic mental healthcare: An introduction to the special issue

Individuals with mental health needs, including those with dual diagnosis of substance use disorders, who encounter the criminal justice system often face multiple layers of stigma tied to their identities as ‘offenders’, people with mental illness, and substance ‘users’. Additional stigmas may stem from factors such as homelessness or belonging to marginalized ethnic or cultural groups. These labels can severely impact mental health, increase the likelihood of further involvement with the criminal justice system, impact on self-identity, and limit access to opportunities in education, housing, and employment. More broadly, these negative assumptions undermine a person's social citizenship and their capacity to lead a meaningful, prosocial life. As a result, reducing the stigma experienced by individuals with these intersecting identities is crucial. This special issue sought to collate contemporary research from around the world on the topic of forensic mental health stigma and make suggestions for moving the field forward.