Hoosier State Today

The National Criminal Justice Association (NCJA) has highlighted a shortage of behavioral health beds in Indiana, calling for expanded access to treatment. This announcement was made on the NCJA's website on April 10.

According to Hoosier State Today, Indiana ranks 18th among U.S. states for the number of psychiatric beds, with 11.9 beds per 100,000 residents, which is significantly below the national target of 50 beds per 100,000. The analysis suggests that limited bed availability increases strain on emergency departments and law enforcement. Mental health advocates argue that increasing inpatient capacity is necessary to address the behavioral health crisis.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that suicide was the second leading cause of death in 2022 for Americans aged 10–14 and 25–34. The agency reports that suicide rates in the United States have risen by 36% since 2000, reflecting broader national concerns about mental health access and crisis intervention resources.

A study published in JAMA Health Forum in 2023 found that untreated mental illness in Indiana resulted in approximately $4.2 billion in annual costs. These costs stemmed from lost earnings, premature mortality, increased emergency department visits, and incarceration related to mental health crises. The study underscores the financial impact of insufficient access to mental health care in the state.

According to the NCJA, it represents state, tribal, and local governments on criminal justice policy and funding issues. It supports evidence-based practices and facilitates collaboration across justice systems to improve public safety and fair administration of justice. The association also manages programs such as the Justice Information Sharing initiative and provides training, technical assistance, and advocacy for its members.