How Do You Prevent A Suicide Among Prison Inmates?
• Be alert for warnings signs, such as the following. • Situational • Recent loss or separation from a loved one. • Long or life sentence. • Receiving a parole “hit.” • Receiving time in administrative segregation. • Chronic or terminal illness. • Family history of suicide. • History of previous suicide attempts. • Psychiatric diagnosis (“special needs” inmate). • Absence of a support network (no letters or visits). • Suicide of a friend, fellow inmate, or family member. • Cognitive/Emotional • Belief that one is a failure. • Feeling hopeless and helpless. • Extreme guilt about offense. • Behavioral • Giving away personal possessions. • Change in previous patterns of behavior. • Isolating oneself. • Hoarding medications. • Crying or other indications of depression. • Use of Verbal Expressions Such as the Following: • “I can’t go on.” • “I’ve nothing to live for.” • “Nobody cares what happens to me.” • “My life is over.” • Determine whether additional risk factors are present. In additi
