People in prison are more likely to suffer with mental health problems than the general population and over half of people in prison report mental health issues such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. Mental health is often at the heart of why people commit crime and a prison sentence could be an opportunity for people to address these issues, getting the help they need and reducing the likelihood of someone reoffending on release. Unfortunately, its often a wasted opportunity as many people don’t get the help they need while they are inside, and often their mental health gets worse. Many face long waiting lists for mental health support, disruptions in their medication, a lack of meaningful activity and some people are locked in their cells for over 22 hours a day. It is no wonder the level of mental health need is high, and its getting worse.
