Nelson Mandela once said, "It is said that no one truly knows a nation until one has been inside its jails. A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but its lowest ones." Deep insights about a country's civilisation can be gleaned from the state of its prisons and how its prisoners are treated.

India's criminal justice system often neglects the mental health of prisoners. Several factors, including poor prison conditions, lack of amenities, overcrowding of prisoners, lack of healthy lifestyles, lack of or limited access to health services, lack of social interaction, likely abuse, physical, verbal or mental, discrimination and stigma, privacy, lack of meaningful activities, and uncertainty about prospects or future marginalisation after release, can cause or exacerbate mental health problems According to a study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than half of prisoners and inmates have mental health problems.

In a paper published by Rabiya, Syed, Raghavan and Vijaya studying prison mental health in India, it is noticed that mental disorders such as schizophrenia, depression and substance use disorders are common among prisoners in India. At the same time, suicide is also a significant concern. The high suicide rate among prisoners in India is a clear indicator of the mental health crisis within the prison system. According to the 2021 report by the National Human Rights Commission of India, eighty per cent of natural deaths among prisoners were due to suicide. This alarming statistic highlights the desperate situation faced by many inmates and the urgent need for improved mental health care and support within prisons.

Prisoners' mental health is not only a humanitarian issue but also has severe implications for recidivism and rehabilitation. Untreated mental illness among prisoners increases their likelihood of recidivism after release, perpetuating the cycle of incarceration. According to the National Institute of Justice, about 68 per cent of prisoners with mental disorders were arrested for a new crime within three years of their release. This highlights how important it is to address mental health issues in prisons, both for the well-being of inmates and for the protection of the public.

Despite the urgent need, there are several barriers to providing adequate mental health care in prisons. Resources are often inadequate, and there is a lack of qualified mental health professionals to provide treatment. In addition, the stigma associated with mental health disorders can prevent prisoners from seeking the treatment or help they need. Ignorance and lack of mental health training among prison staff can also hinder the detection and treatment of mental health problems in prisoners.

Essential measures to enhance mental healthcare in Indian jails are included in the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017. Section 31(2) of the Act requires all correctional medical officers to complete primary and emergency mental health education. This clause acknowledges the significance of providing medical personnel with the abilities and information required to manage the mental health requirements of prisoners successfully. Furthermore, every state government is required by Section 103(6) of the Act to set up a mental health facility in the medical wing of a minimum of one state jail. The purpose of this provision is to guarantee that prisoners have access to professional mental health treatments within the prison system, underscoring the need to address mental health concerns in correctional environments. 

The complex problem of mental health in Indian jails necessitates quick response and coordinated effort. It is critical to address the high rate of mental illnesses among prisoners, necessitating a comprehensive strategy that combines early intervention, treatment, and prevention. Prison living conditions must be improved since inadequate facilities, excessive congestion, and restricted access to necessities can negatively affect inmate mental health. Access to high-quality mental health care is essential, but it is frequently absent because of a lack of funding and qualified personnel. Cooperation between legislators, prison administrators, and civil society is vital to address these issues adequately. Prioritising mental health in attempts to reform prisons requires policymakers to allocate funds and put in place measures that support mental wellness. 

Prisoners have the same rights to healthcare and fundamental human decency as everybody else. In addition to harming the individual, neglecting their mental health also puts the personnel in prison and, eventually, society at large in danger. In jails, mental illness can exacerbate hostilities, promote violence, and encourage self-harm.

By prioritising mental health services, we acknowledge the possibility of recovery and a brighter future rather than endorsing previous behaviour. Imagine a correctional system prioritising healing and giving inmates the resources they need to leave with a more positive outlook on life rather than just punishing them. Everyone gains from this strategy since it lowers recidivism rates, creates a safer atmosphere inside jails, and eventually makes society more caring and just.

Our society can be enlightened by spreading the joy of mental health. At Heart It Out, we aim to reduce stigma and make mental healthcare accessible to all. Reach out to a mental health professional for support today!