For individuals facing charges and potentially anticipating time in prison, the unknown reality of what life is like behind bars can be a source of immense anxiety and fear. Prisons are meant to be institutions of rehabilitation, but they often fall short, and the psychological effects can be profound and long-lasting. In the following blog, we will explore what incarceration does to the human psyche during a prison sentence and after release.
Challenges Faced by Inmates in Prison: The Statistics
There are several concerning statistics related to U.S. imprisonment, such as high incarceration rates, struggles with mental health, and much more.
U.S. incarceration statistics expose several challenges, such as:
- Over 60,000 people in the U.S. are in solitary confinement. According to studies, this type of confinement can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and depression.
- The U.S. makes up 5% of the global population but has over 20% of the world's prison population.
- The likelihood of suicide rises with each instance of imprisonment. Individuals incarcerated once face a 42% higher risk, which escalates to 67% for those imprisoned twice and jumps to a 113% increased risk for those imprisoned three or more times.
- Approximately 18% of the overall population experiences mental illness, with 44% of those individuals in jail and 37% in prison.
The Psychological Challenges of Incarceration
Prison Policy Initiative highlights some of the key psychological challenges inmates face.
Mental health challenges inmates encounter include:
- Family disconnection
- Loss of autonomy
- Unpredictability
- Overcrowding
- Trauma
Family Disconnection
One of the most painful aspects of incarceration is the separation from family. Prisoners often grapple with a sense of loss as relationships become strained. Visitation restrictions, expensive phone calls, and the emotional burden of not being there for significant life events contribute to feelings of isolation and despair.
Loss of Autonomy
In prison, individuals lose control over nearly every aspect of their daily life. Simple choices like what to eat, when to sleep, and how to spend one's day are dictated by prison schedules and rules. This severe restriction of personal freedom can lead to a loss of self-identity and agency.
Unpredictability
The unpredictable nature of prison life, where violence or lockdowns might occur without warning, causes many inmates to live in a state of constant vigilance and stress. This sustained stress response can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Overcrowding
Numerous jails and prisons nationwide face issues of overcrowding, exacerbating the already negative atmosphere within correctional facilities. In 2020, for instance, 41 states were operating at 75% or more of their capacity.
Overcrowding results in extended time spent in cells, reduced privacy, limited access to mental and physical healthcare, and diminished opportunities for participation in programs and work assignments.
Trauma
Encounters with violence, whether experienced as a victim or witnessed, have the potential to result in trauma. This trauma can manifest in various ways, contributing to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Symptoms of PTSD may include anxiety, depression, avoidance, recurring flashbacks of the traumatic event, hypervigilance, and much more.
The Aftermath of Release
The journey doesn't end with release. Sadly, re-entry into society presents its own set of challenges. Inmates may leave prison only to find that they feel like foreigners in their own communities. Having to adjust to autonomy again, many released inmates find themselves struggling to manage expectations or cope with the stigma of having been in prison.
Former inmates may continue to experience the effects of trauma and institutionalization, making it challenging to move forward. Access to mental health services and support networks during this crucial time can have a significant impact on successful reintegration.
Contact Our Firm to Learn How We Can Help
When dealing with the challenges of incarceration, inmates encounter various difficulties. From long prison sentences to significant fines, post-prison recovery can be challenging. If you or a loved one is currently dealing with legal charges, seeking assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial.
Our team of criminal defense lawyers at Hester Law Group is adept at guiding clients through their cases and crafting unique defense strategies. Regardless of the complexity of your case, we possess the experience and dedication needed to advocate on your behalf.
Contact us online or call (253) 300-3034 to request an initial case evaluation.