Suicide Prevention in Correctional Settings

Abstract

Inmates remain a vulnerable group at elevated risk for suicide, especially in light of stresses associated with incarceration. Despite the elevated risk for inmates, suicide prevention practices in corrections remain tenuous at best. The present article reviews literature on risk and protective factors for suicide among inmates as well as current recommended best practices. It then provides directions for suicide prevention provision, training, and research in correctional settings. These include adaptations for security staff of current empirically supported models of suicide risk training and intervention.

Identification, Referral, and Services for Individuals With Serious Mental Illness Across Multiple Jails

“…Beyond those who enter jail with a history of SMI, jail entry is often a time of extreme psychological distress for those who experience shame, stigma, and/or social isolation related to their criminal behavior. Incarceration exacerbates suicidal risk factors of isolation, psychological strain, bullying, and interpersonal conflict (Cramer et al, 2017). Moreover, county jails struggle with providing services to detainees with SMI (Teplin, 1990;Veysey et al, 1997;Young, 2002).…”

Suicides Among Incarcerated Persons in 18 U.S. States: Findings From the National Violent Death Reporting System, 2003–2014

“…Many incarcerated individuals are more vulnerable to suicide even prior entering the correctional system due to previous suicidal thoughts and behavior, mental illness, substance use problems, and/or economic and social disenfranchisement (Blaauw et al, 2005;WHO, 2007). Other individual-level factors that have been associated with suicides among incarcerated persons include first incarceration, being male, being White, and young age (Cramer et al, 2017).…”

“…However, the incarceration process also may elevate the likelihood of suicidal behavior due to accompanying stressors such as loss of autonomy and freedom, reduced social (family and friends) and financial support, substance withdrawal, and feelings of hopelessness, shame, and embarrassment (Cramer et al, 2017;WHO, 2007). Stress associated with legal aspects of incarceration (e.g., sentence length) and facing the reality of incarceration also may increase inmates' vulnerability for suicide (Cramer et al, 2017), as research suggests that suicides are more likely to occur during the first few months of incarceration, in close proximity to court hearings, and among those with long sentence lengths (Cramer et al, 2017;Hayes, 2010).…”

“…Features of the correctional environment also may affect suicidal behavior, including overcrowded facilities, a combative culture with regular use of force by other inmates and correctional officers, and overworked and undertrained facility staff (Cramer et al, 2017;WHO, 2007). Segregated and single-cell housing can restrict movement and create social isolation that can contribute to psychological deterioration and increased risk of suicide.…”

“…In addition, individuals in isolated housing often experience other risk factors for suicide, such as new disciplinary charges, reduced privileges, psychological distress, and medical and psychiatric conditions (Reeves & Tamburello, 2014). Inadequate or limited access to health and mental health services and a shortage of sufficiently trained mental health practitioners also may contribute to increased vulnerability for suicide among inmates due to reduced availability of mental health treatment and suicide prevention services (Cramer et al, 2017).…”