Mentally ill or dangerous people? Debate about new offender register!

Mentally ill or dangerous people? Debate about new offender register!

In recent weeks, the topic of violent crimes committed by mentally ill perpetrators has again come into focus. As headlines mount, politicians are calling for a registry for mentally ill offenders. The CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann considers such a register to be necessary in order to improve cooperation between security authorities, psychiatric hospitals and psychotherapists tagesschau.de reported.

But not everyone is convinced by this proposal. Experts warn about the legal and ethical problems that would be associated with a registry. Daniel Ehmke, medical director, criticizes the stigmatization of mentally ill people and points out that the majority of people with mental illnesses do not pose a risk to others. Andrea Benecke, President of the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists, describes the CDU initiative as backwards and focuses on prevention and treatment instead of registration. The stigmatization mentioned makes it difficult for many affected people to seek help, which increases the risk of the illness becoming chronic.

The connection between mental illness and violence

The connection between mental disorders and violent behavior is often taken for granted. But Dr. Martin Rettenberger, a legal psychologist, makes it clear that this idea is untenable. Estimates show that 15-20% of people worldwide suffer from a clinically relevant depressive disorder at some point in their life, although the likelihood of serious acts of violence remains low. In 2012, fewer than 300 cases of intentional homicide were registered in Germany, which calls into question the theory that mental illness inevitably leads to violence dgps.de.

The problem is particularly evident in the context of so-called high-risk patients. They not only need treatment, but also external support and a social therapeutic connection. The existing prevention centers in several federal states are intended to help prevent acts of violence; Hamburg, for example, is planning such a facility. However, the implementation of these measures is hampered by organizational, legal and financial hurdles.

The role of stigmatization

A central problem in the debate about mental illnesses remains stigmatization, which often puts a lot of strain on those affected and their relatives. Shame and fear prevent many people from seeking treatment. This “second illness,” as it is often referred to, causes those affected to feel excluded and unable to participate equally in social life. Initiatives such as the Mental Health Action Alliance are committed to destigmatizing mental illnesses and organize an annual week of action on this topic aerzteblatt.de emphasized.

In addition, the Lancet Commission on Ending Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health recommends evidence-based strategies to reduce stigma and advocates for better contact between those affected and those not affected. It calls on governments to implement clear policies to destigmatize and decriminalize suicide. Health facilities must also be trained to meet the needs of the mentally ill.

The current discussion surrounding mental illness and violence shows how important it is to understand the complex connections and at the same time change the image of the mentally ill in society. Prevention, solidarity and an open ear could be decisive steps in the right direction.