Published Paper Details:

Mental health issues among prisoners are a growing concern, often exacerbated by the prison environment, social isolation, and lack of access to appropriate care. This study aims to explore the mental health status of prisoners, shedding light on the psychological challenges they face while incarcerated. Mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are prevalent in correctional facilities, yet they often go undiagnosed or untreated due to systemic barriers. Understanding these issues is crucial for developing effective mental health interventions within prison settings. One of the keys focuses of this research is identifying the barriers prisoners encounter in accessing mental health care and treatment. These barriers include stigma, lack of trained mental health professionals, inadequate mental health policies, and the punitive nature of correctional institutions that often overlook rehabilitation. Additionally, socio-economic factors, overcrowding, and limited resources further contribute to the neglect of mental health needs. By examining these obstacles, this study seeks to highlight the gaps in the prison mental health care system and advocate for improved access to necessary services. Furthermore, the research explores the role of social work in correctional settings, emphasizing how social workers can support prisoners' mental health and well-being. Social workers play a vital role in assessment, counselling, rehabilitation, and reintegration efforts. Their interventions can help bridge the gap between prisoners and mental health services, ensuring that incarcerated individuals receive the necessary support to cope with psychological distress. Strengthening social work practices in correctional institutions can foster a more humane and rehabilitative approach to incarceration, ultimately contributing to the successful reintegration of prisoners into society.