For many, jobs have been lost, relationships have been harmed, and living situations have changed.
In some ways, the entire family is incarcerated, or at the very least deeply affected.
Being released from prison can be just as stressful as entering prison.
francescoch / Getty Images
Upon release, you lose your health insurance.
Some employers can refuse to hire you, too.
You may also experience restrictions on housing as well.
While an extreme example, the infamous experience ofKalief Browdersheds light on some of these difficulties.
Browder spent three years in Rikers Island awaiting trial, including two years in solitary confinement.
After his release, he struggled with mental health issues and ultimately took his own life.
No matter your situation, adjusting to life after prison is difficult and requires ongoing support.
Some states do mandate ongoing mental health follow-ups following release for individuals meeting certain criteria.
Mental illnessalso raises an individuals risk of recidivism or a relapse into criminal behavior.
Symptoms of disorders or illnesses will become exasperated if untreated, especially if life circumstances become challenging.
Ideally, reintegration should begin even before release to help an individual gradually transition back to society.
We need to teach [former inmates] system management and how to cope.
How many are guided through the process of reintegration and connected to the right mental health and social services?
For those taking medication, prescription renewal may no longer be possible without insurance.
Stigma
Generally speaking, when you leave the prison system, youre on your own.
And thestigma of having a criminal recordcan impact every aspect of your life.
This, combined with thestigma surrounding mental health, is detrimental.
Other barriers exist, too, such as job insecurity and housing instability.
You need access to transportation and interview attire to interview for a job, which you may not have.
More than half of incarcerated adults in the United States have children, 55% of which are minors.
You may have also lost your children to the foster system and need legal support to reconnect with them.
If we want former inmates to thrive, Dr. Morgan says, we cannot ostracize them.
When they become functioning community members, they are more likely to contribute and less likely to re-offend.
Additionally, we must make it easier for former inmates to participate in community-wide activities that promote healthy behaviors.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Just dont be afraid to ask for support.
doi:10.1177/0033354919826563
National Incarceration Association.Post incarceration syndrome (PICS).
2014;52(3):371-398. doi:10.1111%2F1745-9125.12040
