229 inmates struggling with mental health issues are experiencing a sad reality inside Poojappura jail. It is impossible to stress the pressing need for effective mental health facilities within prisons.
Poojappura Central Jail
The institution does not have sufficient facilities to give them prompt medical attention. Despite a decision being made in 2019 to hire a full-time counselor, clinical psychologist, and psychiatrist at the jail, the problem persists. On paper, the order is still in place. Currently, a psychiatrist from the Peroorkada mental health institute makes a weekly visit to the jail to give care for the 229 detainees there who have mental health difficulties. The jail staff, however, believe that a single physician cannot effectively care for all 229 patients.
Problems Faced by Inmates
These 229 inmates have various mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, or other mental disorders. Psychiatrist there state that due to this mental health issue they face a lot of difficulty in their everyday life and their condition is getting even worse.
Drawbacks of the steps taken by the government
Even though the government has given funding of Rs 2 crore but the police superintendent said that this funding is not enough for all the work to be done. He said that a suitable place has been identified and PWD has been preparing a DPR in that building, but this fund of Rs 2 crore cannot finish this work.
Other Issues
Jail has the capacity to accommodate only 722 innates but it has 1200 innates making it difficult for the authorities to provide appropriate services. This also increased the mental health issues for the inmates as well.
Also, many experts have criticized the government for neglecting this major issue. It is something that requires immediate action.
Measure to resolve the issue:
It is important to provide the following facilities to the innates to resolve the issue:
- Increase Funding: In the prison system, there is an urgent need for more money and resources devoted to mental health care. In order to adequately examine, diagnose, and treat prisoners, this requires hiring more qualified mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.
- Screening the inmates: Implementing thorough mental health screening processes upon admission to the jail can aid in locating those who already have mental health conditions. This would make it possible for early intervention and the creation of specialized treatment programs catered to the unique requirements of each prisoner.
- Providing care and treatment: It is important to provide appropriate care and treatment for the inmates to reduce their concerns.
- Collaboration: It is crucial that prisons and outside mental health organizations and agencies work together. Making connections with other organizations can make it easier to offer specialized care, counseling, and therapy programs that address the particular difficulties experienced by prisoners with mental health illnesses.
- Education and Training: Prioritising education and training programs for correctional staff will help to ensure that they have the information and abilities needed to identify and respond effectively to mental health issues among prisoners. By lowering stigma and fostering improved mental health outcomes, can aid in fostering a supportive and understanding environment within the jail.
