The treatment of emotional and mental disorders within the resident population is premised upon the provision of responsible mental health services within the context of sustaining the safe and orderly operation of the Department of Juvenile Justice Bon Air Correctional Center. The mental health services provided shall be consistent with the Department’s mission to protect the public by preparing court-involved youth to be successful citizens. In providing such mental health services, all residents will be treated with dignity. Upon initial evaluation, the psychiatrist will spend sufficient time with the resident to make a thorough mental health assessment. The psychiatrist will also answer the resident's questions regarding possible diagnoses, treatment, and medication options, and possible effects. In providing mental health services, the psychiatrist recognizes that residents being evaluated may be suffering from a variety of emotional problems or mental disorders. The psychiatrist also recognizes that some residents seek medications for personal gain not related to any objective signs of mental disorder. Medications and treatment should be ordered based on clinical need and not in response to a resident’s request, desire, or demand. At a minimum, a resident who receives psychiatric services should have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder. If no medical need exists, a resident’s request for medication should be denied and no medical treatment or medication ordered. When prescribing medications, the psychiatrist will monitor the effects of such medications on a regular basis and continue such prescriptions only as long as deemed necessary and discontinue medications as soon as considered appropriate. Long-term use of medications to address adjustment or situational problems is discouraged. Medications should not be prescribed to placate residents or to alleviate mild symptoms, which may be indications for the need for psychological and/or other services.
