Suicide In Prison

One of the leading causes of death among inmates in the correctional system is suicide. The reasoning for this is the harsh conditions that they are exposed too (e.g. overcrowding, isolation, and trauma just name a few) (Smith, Woldford, Mandracchia, & Jahn, 2013). Another aspect is those who are entering correctional institutions with mental health disorder (e.g. psychotic disorder, history of addiction, as well as those having a history of suicide) are at a greater risk of committing suicide. The purpose of Smith et al., (2013) was to gain understanding of the potential suicide among inmates, as well as to test the accuracy of dynamic of the Acquired Capability for Suicide (ACSS). With this mind, they wanted to gain understanding of the relationship between the harsh events (e.g. sexual assault, beating, and other traumatic events) in prison to the ACSS. This study consisted of 399 adult males in a prison in Mississippi. According to

According to Angel Riddick; correctional officer at Eastern Shore Correctional Institute, officer are to check the tiers every 45 minutes for changes in their behaviors (e.g. crying, change in mood, lack of sleep, and etc. Then they are assessed medical/psychiatrist determine if he needs to be placed on suicide watch. If it is demined that the inmate is experiencing suicidal ideations the inmate is placed in a room for observation wearing only under garments (Angel Riddick, personal communication, October 22, 2015). The World Health Organization (2007) mention it is important to assess inmates before and after court hearing, death of a family member, and other life events due to they may be experiencing a sense of hopelessness. Also, family members are to notify correctional officers if the inmate has mentioned thoughts of taking their