National Suicide Prevention Month: Addressing mental health crisis in corrections

Suicide rates in U.S. jails are soaring—nearly four times higher than the general population, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. As National Suicide Prevention Month kicks off this September, it's crucial to shine a light on mental health issues within correctional facilities and implement strategies to combat this crisis.

Why this month matters in corrections

National Suicide Prevention Month isn't just a time for awareness—it's a call to action. Incarceration often heightens feelings of isolation and despair, increasing suicide risk. This month offers a key chance to address these challenges and foster a safer, more supportive environment for those behind bars.

The broader impact

Suicide in prisons ripples through families and communities, causing deep grief and stress. The effects are felt beyond the individual, impacting families with financial instability and emotional trauma. High incarceration rates can perpetuate cycles of poverty and marginalization, weakening community bonds and opportunities.

3 key actions to correctional facilities

1. Boost Mental Health Screening: Implement regular mental health check-ups, especially for new or distressed inmates. Having mental health professionals on hand for ongoing support is crucial. This helps catch issues early and provides a safety net for those struggling.
2. Launch Peer Support Programs: Create programs where trained inmates offer emotional support and camaraderie to their peers. These can include mentorships and support groups, helping to build a community and reduce feelings of isolation.
3. Train Staff in Suicide Prevention: Equip correctional staff with comprehensive suicide prevention training. This includes recognizing warning signs and responding to crises, ensuring staff are proactive in creating a supportive environment.

A few of Edovo’s mental health resources

Edovo offers valuable content to support mental health in correctional facilities. Below is a selection of content available on the Edovo platform:

• Reflections and Recovery: A course with meditation and therapeutic exercises to help manage mental health challenges.
• No Bad Parts: Explores trauma and addiction through the Internal Family Systems model, focusing on self-compassion.
• You Matter! by Jessica Barrett: A TEDx talk emphasizing the importance of reaching out for help.
• How to End Veteran Suicide by Ron Self: A plan for supporting veterans dealing with mental health issues.
• Mental Wellness: A webinar series from McLean Hospital offering strategies for improving mental well-being.
• 64 Days of Nonviolence: A campaign promoting nonviolence and reflecting on Gandhi and King’s principles.
  

As National Suicide Prevention Month unfolds, it's a reminder that every life is precious. With the right resources and interventions, we can make a significant impact and save lives within the correctional system. Let’s use this month to drive change, enhance mental health care, and create a supportive environment for all.

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