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