The Effects of Long-Term Incarceration on Prisoners and Their Families

Did you know that the United States has the highest incarceration rates in the world and the most people in prison too? The World Population Review reports that there are currently 2,068,800 in prison, which is roughly the population size of Slovenia behind bars!

With so many people getting locked up, you have to wonder what the repercussions are for society? Also, what are the effects of long-term incarceration on prisoners and their families?

Let’s now explore this topic further by looking at how incarceration affects prisoners’ health. We’ll also look at how you could help someone in jail.

How Incarceration Affects Prisoners’ Health

It’s unfortunate fact to learn that there are much higher chances of getting a disease in prison than if you are living out in the general population. After all, prisons don’t have the best track record for medical facilities. Also, there are many people packed together in one facility, making it easier for diseases to spread.

A good idea for prisoners is to try and create healthy routines and habits from the get-go. Eating healthy food and exercising can be beneficial in so many ways. For one thing, it’s going to be a positive tactic for trying to prevent catching diseases.

How Can Families Help?

When someone is set to spend a long time behind bars, there are a few ways families can help support a healthier lifestyle in prison. Giving an inmate money means they can buy healthy food items from the prison store. If you provide the family member incarcerated with the same amount routinely, they will be able to develop a good healthy routine for themselves.

Another way to help someone in jail is to provide books in a readable or audio format. Reading will have a strong benefit on the mind by alleviating boredom and a way to escape the cell walls. It will also give the person incarcerated a chance to educate themself and improve their life.

Of course, answering calls and making regular visits are going to comfort the family member incarcerated, lowering their stress levels. And sending letters can mean so much to inmates. For instance, you could write long letters about all the little things you and the family are getting up every couple of weeks or so.

Mental Health Issues

Many inmates suffer from mental health issues. The burden of incarceration is especially heavy for those who have had to leave family behind. Also, the incarceration effects of a long-term prison sentence will take a heavy toll on most people’s mental health.

The person serving the sentence should therefore seek any official help within their prison facility to help them cope with the challenges that lay ahead. There are various mental-health-related programs in US prisons that an inmate should try to apply for.

For the family outside prison, it’s important to try and maintain a positive outlook. Seeking professional help is something you really should consider.

The Effects of Long-Term Incarceration on Prisoners Explained

The effects of long-term incarceration on prisoners can be many. The way to avoid any negative ones, try to stick to positive and solid routines from the get-go!

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