Examining the Mental Health of Prison Inmates: A Perspective of a Psychologist

Abstract

Mental health is a common concern for people seeking well-being in their lives.
Healthcare providers and policymakers worldwide have focused on analyzing and
working on issues related to mental health among varied age groups. However, people
who are in detention or the inmate population, like prisoners, are one of the least
studied populations in terms of understanding the prevalence of mental illnesses among
the cohort. The detrimental impact of confinement within the prisons can be
threatening and mentally exhausting for the inmates, as most of them are unaware of
their rights and the justice system. The present paper examines mental health issues
among prison inmates in India and reviews the related literature. The paper also
discusses the fact file of available services, laws, and healthcare policies for prisoners
in India. Further, the issues are discussed with a focus on highlighting the models and
interventions that can be utilized and applied to enhance the mental healthcare system
for the inmate population in the country