Mental health in Prison

Have you ever thought about mental health of people in prison and what happens with them?

Being in prison can take a serious toll on an individual’s psychological well-being. New conditions often develop, and pre-existing conditions may worsen.2 Sadly, many justice-involved individuals are released back into the community without ever receiving any type of treatment.

The Toll Prison Takes on Psychological Well-Being

 Incarceration takes a serious toll on mental health for several reasons:

They Are No Longer Considered Productive Members of Society

People can experience a loss of purpose when they’re locked up. Prisons are not obligated to pay their occupants a minimum wage for labor, and they can charge high fees for phone calls with families.6 Thus, it can be difficult for a justice-involved person to contribute to their family’s financial or emotional needs. A perceived lack of purpose in life can take a serious toll on anyone’s psychological well-being.2

Their Identities Get Stripped

When someone is incarcerated, they are no longer known for their profession, such as being a musician or a delivery driver, and they aren’t known for their skills, talents, or knowledge. The loss of sense of self can be quite disorienting, confusing, and troublesome.

They’re Separated From Loved Ones

They can no longer be with their friends and families. Missing their loved ones and not being part of their daily lives increases feelings of isolation and loneliness.2 Additionally, they can’t be there for their loved ones, so they may worry about those they can’t support, such as an elderly family member. They may also experience a lot of grief over missing out on a child’s activities or not being able to be there for a partner.

A Word From Verywell

Anyone who is facing incarceration should consider revealing any pre-existing mental health conditions. Disclosing those issues may increase the likelihood of accessing treatment.

But bigger changes are needed at the systemic and legal levels. Better access to mental health services overall may prevent crime. Treating people during incarceration and providing access to ongoing treatment after they’re released may reduce recidivism rates