Introduction
The prevalence of inmate mental health issues in correctional facilities is a serious problem that can have a major impact on efforts to establish successful individual reentry programs. Mental health problems can put an individual at a disadvantage when it comes to transitioning back into the community after being released from prison, making them more likely to end up back in jail.
For example, inmates who suffer from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have difficulty adjusting to the changes that come with reentry, such as finding employment, adapting to a new living environment, and interacting with new people (Houser et al., 2019). This can make successful reentry more difficult, leading to an increased likelihood of relapse into criminal behavior.
The Impact of Inmate Mental Health Issues on Implementation of Individual Reentry Programs
Psychological difficulties can prevent inmates from taking advantage of the correctional services that are available in jails and prisons. Inmates who suffer from mental health issues may have difficulty engaging in these programs, as well as difficulty understanding and applying the lessons taught in them. This aspect can result in no advancement in terms of rehabilitation, which can then lead to an increased chance of a person returning to criminal behavior.
In addition, the prevalence of mental health issues in jails and prisons can create a hostile environment for inmates. Mentally ill inmates may not be able to form positive relationships with other inmates, or they may be more likely to be targets of violence (Edgemon & Clay-Warner, 2019). The situation can add to the difficulty of them getting back into the community after they have been released.
Conclusion
Given the impact that inmate mental health issues can have on reentry efforts, jails, and prisons need to take steps to address the problem, providing access to mental health services, such as counseling and medication, as well as creating an environment that is more accommodating to inmates with mental health issues. It is equally crucial to give prisoners the opportunity to participate in educational and vocational courses that are suited to their particular requirements (Stoliker & Galli, 2019). By taking these steps, jails and prisons can help ensure inmates are better prepared for successful reentry upon release.
References
Edgemon, T. G., & Clay-Warner, J. (2019). Inmate mental health and the pains of imprisonment. Society and Mental Health, 9(1), 33-50.
Houser, K. A., Vîlcică, E. R., Saum, C. A., & Hiller, M. L. (2019). Mental health risk factors and parole decisions: Does inmate mental health status affect who gets released. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(16), 2950.
Stoliker, B. E., & Galli, P. M. (2019). An examination of mental health and psychiatric care among older prisoners in the United States. Victims & Offenders, 14(4), 480-509.
Loading...
