What does the term "warehouses for the mentally ill" imply about the role of prisons today?

The term "warehouses for the mentally ill" implies that prisons are primarily being used to confine individuals who have mental health issues without providing the necessary treatment or support for their psychological disorders. This perspective highlights a significant concern in the criminal justice system, where many inmates are not receiving adequate mental health care. Instead of rehabilitative services that address their mental health needs, prisons tend to serve as holding facilities, leading to overcrowding and worsening mental health outcomes for those incarcerated.

This concept reflects a broader critique of the system, suggesting that prisons have become de facto institutions for individuals with mental illness rather than environments focused on rehabilitation or comprehensive healthcare. While there may be some efforts made to treat inmates, the overarching reality presented by the term suggests neglect of mental health care and a lack of necessary resources to adequately address these challenges.