More than 60 percent of juveniles in Mississippi detention centers and training schools have mental disorders, according to a recent Mississippi State survey.

Research scientist Angela A. Robertson of the Social Science Research Center surveyed nearly 500 juveniles in nine of the state's 15 detention centers and two state training schools. Her study, conducted for the state Division of Public Safety Planning and the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, assessed both mental health and substance abuse disorders.

She learned that of those with moderate to severe clinical symptoms, 39 percent had conduct disorders and 32 percent had substance abuse disorders.

In addition, 22 percent have depressive disorders, 19 to 30 percent have anxiety disorders, and 9 percent are suicidal.

Her findings, she says, show the need for a mental health diagnosis for every juvenile detainee. The study results were released at a Jackson press conference Nov. 15.

"If these individuals are properly screened and treatment provided when indicated, their chances of becoming productive citizens are greatly enhanced," said Billy White Jr., director of the Division of Public Safety Planning.

The consequences for not providing treatment are great, Robertson emphasized. "If the mental disorders are not recognized, many of these juveniles will become hardened criminals. Both they and society will suffer the consequences."