Mental disorders and risk of suicide attempt in prisoners

Global prevalence of borderline personality disorder and self-reported symptoms of adults in prison: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The prevalence of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in the general population is estimated to be 1.8 % whereas the rates of BPD among people in prison have been reported between 9 and 30 %. To date, there are no published systematic reviews into the rates of BPD among adults in prison. Understanding the prevalence of BPD in this setting can help to inform prison-staff education, funding and intervention options, and adequate care for an already at-risk population. We aimed to explore the global prevalence of BPD diagnoses and self-reported symptomology among adults in prisons via systematic review and meta-analysis. We also aimed to explore gender differences between women and men in prison. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of papers where a BPD diagnosis or self-reported symptoms were reported within a prison population of male or female adult offenders (18+ years). Our search yielded 33 studies comprising diagnostic interviews, and 15 studies which included self-reported symptom measures. The results indicated that for women and men in prison, the prevalence of BPD was (27.4 % and 18.8 %, respectively) when assessed via diagnostic interview. Results were similar for both women and men in studies that used a self-report measure to assess a BPD diagnosis (29.1 % and 16.4 %). Findings suggest that the prevalence of BPD in prisons should be considered when making decisions about mental health and criminogenic interventions. Self-report measures could be a resource-efficient method for screening prisoners for personality pathology in prison settings. Contemporary, well-structured, large-scale studies are required to better understand the prevalence of personality disorder in prisons.

Mental illness detection through harvesting social media: a comprehensive literature review

Mental illness is a common disease that at its extremes leads to personal and societal suffering. A complicated multi-factorial disease, mental illness is influenced by a number of socioeconomic and clinical factors, including individual risk factors. Traditionally, approaches relying on personal interviews and filling out questionnaires have been employed to diagnose mental illness; however, these manual procedures have been found to be frequently prone to errors and unable to reliably identify individuals with mental illness. Fortunately, people with mental illnesses frequently express their ailments on social media, making it possible to more precisely identify mental disease by harvesting their social media posts. This study offers a thorough analysis of how to identify mental illnesses (more specifically, depression) from users' social media data. Along with the explanation of data acquisition, preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification techniques, the most recent published literature is presented to give the readers a thorough understanding of the subject. Since, in the recent past, the majority of the relevant scientific community has focused on using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models to identify mental illness, so the review also focuses on these techniques and along with their detail, their critical analysis is presented. More than 100 DL, ML, and natural language processing (NLP) based models developed for mental illness in the recent past have been reviewed, and their technical contributions and strengths are discussed. There exist multiple review studies, however, discussing extensive recent literature along with the complete road map on how to design a mental illness detection system using social media data and ML and DL classification methods is limited. The review also includes detail on how a dataset may be acquired from social media platforms, how it is preprocessed, and features are extracted from it to employ for mental illness detection. Hence, we anticipate that this review will help readers learn more and give them a comprehensive road map for identifying mental illnesses using users' social media data.

Medical Chart Review to Explore Suicidal and Self-Harm Thoughts and Behavior Among Psychiatric Inpatients

Suicide and self-harm events are elevated in psychiatric inpatient populations. In this study, health data were retrospectively collected from the medical records of 183 patients (97 civil and 86 forensic) who had resided in, or been admitted to, a public psychiatric hospital in Saskatchewan, Canada from April 1 to December 31, 2021. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted to estimate prevalence and correlates of (non-fatal) suicide and self-harm events, including recent and lifetime occurrences, according to patients' health information. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of patients had any record of non-fatal suicide or self-harm events, including a lifetime history of self-harm (42%) and suicidal behavior (37%) as well as recent self-harm (24%) and suicidal (31%) thoughts or behaviors. Forensic patients were significantly more likely to have a record of suicide and self-harm events. This study emphasizes the need for further research into the course of suicidality and self-harm in psychiatric inpatients.

Investigating suicidal behavior among prisoners in the light of the behavioral addiction approach: results of a multicenter cross-sectional study

Introduction

The behavioral addiction model posits that repetitive suicidal behaviors can serve as maladaptive strategies for managing stress and negative emotional states, akin to substance addiction. Both behaviors involve negative emotions, offer temporary psychological relief, and persist, indicating shared neurobiological mechanisms. This study explored psychometric differences among major repeaters, occasional attempters, and non-suicidal prisoners.

Methods

A multi-centre cross-sectional survey of 363 inmates across four prisons assessed depression, cognitive-emotional regulation, impulsivity, perceived stress, lifetime non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempts.

Results

Mild depression, moderate suicidal ideation, and moderate impulsivity were common, with nearly half of the participants having attempted suicide at least once. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that repeated suicidal behavior in the past increases susceptibility to future suicidal thoughts, with suicide attempts serving as a maladaptive emotion regulation strategy among repeated attempters.

Discussion

The results reveal differences in emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and stress coping strategies among the studied groups, reinforcing the idea of suicidality as a form of behavioral addiction. The addiction approach helps explain the sensitivity to later suicidal thoughts in former attempters and self-harmers, offering valuable insights for tailored interventions within correctional settings.

Australia's unethical deportation practice discriminates against New Zealanders with mental illness: 'Everybody needs good neighbours!'

In this article, we explore Australia's deportation of people with mental illness from an ethical and human rights perspective. We outline the legislative framework regulating migration policy in Australia, focussing on Section 501 (s.501) of the Migration Act 1958 (which makes provision for deportation of non-residents on character grounds) and on the recently issued Direction 99 (which provides guidance on visa refusal and cancellation under s.501). We find the definition of a failed character test embedded within the legislative framework to be discriminatory, in that it conflates mental illness with character attributes. We present recent data on s.501 deportees sourced from the New Zealand Police and Manatū Hauora (the New Zealand Ministry of Health). Drawing on our clinical experiences working in forensic psychiatry and rehabilitation services, we describe some of our patients' experiences and the detrimental effects of deportation on their health and well-being. We argue that deportation of people with mental illness contravenes principles of psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery, is discriminatory and constitutes a moral wrong. Furthermore, while we recognise that recent policy changes reflect a tempering of the previous hard-line policy stance, it remains to be seen what effects they will have in practice. We question whether the new guidance will be enough to improve the treatment of and outcomes for those with mental illness, or whether the changes represent a case of too little, too late.

Suicide risk in male incarcerated individuals in Spain: clinical, criminological and prison-related correlates

BACKGROUND

Prison suicide is a complex phenomenon that may be influenced by individual, clinical, social and environmental factors. In Spain, few studies have explored the relationship with institutional, prison-related variables. The aim of this study is to examine correlates of suicide in a sample of male incarcerated individuals from 5 Spanish penitentiary centers.

METHODS

This present study entails a secondary data analysis, using data from the Prevalence of mental disorders in prisons study. This is a cross-sectional multicenter study conducted in 2007-2008 across 5 penitentiary centers in Spain. The Spanish version of the Plutchik suicide risk scale was used to assess the risk of suicide (those scoring ≥ 6 were considered to be at risk of suicide). Sociodemographic, clinical, criminological and prison-related data were collected via face-to face interviews and criminological data were confirmed using penitentiary records.

RESULTS

The final sample included 707 male incarcerated individuals (mean age 36.79 years ± 9.90 years). Several significant correlates associated with higher risk of suicide were identified including criminological factors (having committed a violent offense, being a recidivist), clinical factors (family history of mental disorders, the presence of mental disorders, having physical conditions, contact with a mental health specialist, medication treatment in the last 12 months), and prison-related determinants (workshop/training course participation) was significantly associated with lower suicide risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Several correlates within a comprehensive range of sociodemographic, criminological, clinical and prison-related variables were identified. This information is primordial for preventing suicide and reducing the existing risk. The findings may contribute to developing effective suicide prevention programs within Spanish prison services. Importantly, future research must continue to investigate the nature of suicidal outcomes among incarcerated individuals.

Cultural adaptation of a UK evidence-based problem-solving intervention to support Polish prisoners at risk of suicidal behaviour: a cross-sectional survey using an Ecological Validity Model

OBJECTIVE

To complete a cultural adaptation of a UK evidence-based problem-solving intervention to support Polish prisoners at risk of suicidal behaviour.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey participatory design using an Ecological Validity Model.

SETTING

The study was a collaboration between: the Academy of Justice, in Warsaw, the University of Lodz, two Polish prisons (ZK Raciborz and ZK Klodzko) and the University of York (UK).

METHODS

The adaptation process included an examination of the use of language, metaphors and content (ie, culturally appropriate and syntonic language), the changing of case study scenarios (relevance and acceptability) and maintenance of the theoretical underpinning of the problem-solving model (intervention comprehensibility and completeness). Four stages used: (1) a targeted demonstration for Polish prison staff, (2) a wider audit of the skills with Polish prison staff and students, (3) forward and back-translation of the adapted package, and (4) two iterative consultations with participants from stages (1) and (2) and prison officers from two Polish prisons.

PARTICIPANTS

Self-selecting volunteer participants included: targeted prison staff (n=10), prison staff from the wider Polish penitentiary system (n=39), students from the University of Lodz (n=28) and prison officers from two Polish prisons (n=12).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Acceptability and feasibility of the training package, reported in a series of knowledge user surveys.

RESULTS

The recognised benefits of using the skills within the training package included: enhancing communication, reflective development, collaborative working, changing behaviour, empowering decision-making, relevance to crisis management situations and use of open-ended questions. The skills were endorsed to be used as part of future penitentiary training for prison officers in Poland.

CONCLUSIONS

The skills had widespread appeal for use across the Polish penitentiary system. The materials were deemed relevant while adhering to the comprehensibility of the intervention. Further evaluation of the intervention should be explored using a randomised controlled trial design.

Common mental disorders and associated factors among Ethiopian prisoners: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Common mental disorders are a major public health concern in the world and negatively influence people's psychological, physical, economic, and overall well-being. Since prisoners live with restricted freedom and lack regular social interaction like communication with family and friends, the prevalence of common mental disorders is frequently found to be higher among prisoners compared to the general population. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders and their associated factors among prisoners in Ethiopia.

Methods

The primary published studies were searched by using different databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINHAL, and African Journal Online. A total of eight primary articles that assessed the prevalence and associated factors of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The data were extracted using the data extraction format in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was assessed by the I² test. Due to the presence of heterogeneity among included studies, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Egger's weighted regression test and funnel plots were used to check the presence of publication bias.

Results

A total of 8 primary studies with 3,585 study participants were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners was 62.29% with a 95% CI (50.94, 73.65). The subgroup analysis based on regional state revealed that the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders in Amhara, Oromia, and the other two regions (Addis Ababa and SNNPR) was 72.4, 50.23, and 54.25%, respectively. History of mental illness (AOR = 6.21, 95% CI: 3.27, 11.80), poor social support (AOR = 3.90, 95% CI: 1.45, 10.51), and traumatic life events (AOR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.04, 12.73) were significantly associated with a common mental disorder in this review.

Conclusion

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among prisoners was high. Therefore, improving the delivery of mental health services in correctional institutions has a major contribution to the reduction of the disorder, and incarcerated people require more attention and early intervention for common mental disorders.

Suicidal Offenders and Non-Offenders with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders: A Retrospective Evaluation of Distinguishing Factors Using Machine Learning

Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) have an elevated risk of suicidality. The same has been found for people within the penitentiary system, suggesting a cumulative effect for offender patients suffering from SSD. While there appear to be overlapping characteristics, there is little research on factors distinguishing between offenders and non-offenders with SSD regarding suicidality. Our study therefore aimed at evaluating distinguishing such factors through the application of supervised machine learning (ML) algorithms on a dataset of 232 offenders and 167 non-offender patients with SSD and history of suicidality. With an AUC of 0.81, Naïve Bayes outperformed all other ML algorithms. The following factors emerged as most powerful in their interplay in distinguishing between offender and non-offender patients with a history of suicidality: Prior outpatient psychiatric treatment, regular intake of antipsychotic medication, global cognitive deficit, a prescription of antidepressants during the referenced hospitalisation and higher levels of anxiety and a lack of spontaneity and flow of conversation measured by an adapted positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS). Interestingly, neither aggression nor overall psychopathology emerged as distinguishers between the two groups. The present findings contribute to a better understanding of suicidality in offender and non-offender patients with SSD and their differing characteristics.

Admission to jail and psychotic symptoms: a study of the psychotic continuum in a sample of recently incarcerated men

PURPOSE

We sought to measure the prevalence of psychotic symptoms (PSs) and psychotic disorders (PDs) in a sample of men entering jail and to compare these prevalences with those observed in the general population. We also aimed to explore the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with PSs and PDs.

METHODS

The Mental Health in the Prison Population (MHPP) survey interviewed 630 incarcerated men upon admission to jail, using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. We looked for associations between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and the presence of lifetime PSs and PDs in the MHPP and Mental Health in the General Population (MHGP) surveys, which used the same methodology to collect data from the jail and general populations of the same geographical area.

RESULTS

A higher proportion of PSs without PDs was found in the MHGP group (25.3% vs. 17.8%, p < 0.001), whereas a higher prevalence of PDs was found in the MHPP group (7.0% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.001). The multivariable model indicated that subjects who were single or separated/divorced/widowed and had a history of trauma exposure were at joint risk of PSs and PDs, whereas entering jail was not associated with either PSs or PDs after adjustment for all covariates.

CONCLUSION

The present study shows that PDs, but not PSs, are more prevalent in men entering jail than in the general population. This overrepresentation could be further explained by the exposure to vulnerability factors found in this population rather than by any specificity related to entering jail.

Applying the Stress Process Theory to Assess Correlates of Suicide Ideation-to-Action Among Persons on Parole in the United States

There is limited knowledge regarding precipitating factors associated with suicidality among persons on parole. Pairing the suicide ideation-to-action framework and stress process theory, the present study aimed to characterize sources of major stress (drug use, physical health, and mental health) and their associations to suicide ideation, planning, and attempt among a national sample of persons on parole. This study included a subsample of persons on parole (N = 1725) using pooled national data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015-2019). A series of logistic regression results indicate that various drug use, physical health, and mental health factors significantly influenced all three suicidality measures. Due to this population's unique experiences and numerous barriers following release from prison, it is essential to personalize interventions geared toward this population to meet their specific needs and address suicidality based on where they fall on this continuum.

Emerging challenges to prisoners vaccination of covid-19: Historical, legal and humanitarian view

This research aims to present a legal history of the prisoners’ treatment in global crises along with presenting an overview of prisoners’ treatment during Covid-19 in view of International Humanitarian Laws. Using the formative research method with a conceptual approach and statute approach, data was gathered from various legal documents related to prisoners’ health laws linked to legal purpose theories. This study further explains the need to treat old age prisoners on a priority basis and to what extent international health organizations are making efforts to establish criteria to vaccinate this societal segment. The international regulatory framework was deeply analyzed to draw conclusions and recommendations along with WHO efforts. It was revealed that there exist adequate laws regarding priority health treatment of the prisoners in crises times but existed an enormous need to highlight and address the sensitive humanitarian issue. Additionally, WHO and other international organizations have also revised the international laws during Covid-19 to treat the prisoners. However, there is an immense need to devise explicit regulations regarding the accessibility of the vaccine to all the groups of society, including prisoners. The provision of a detailed overview of international laws and treaties regarding prisoners’ priority health treatment is a major advance of this research. Further recommendations for the developed and developing nations and future research directions are suggested.

Preventing suicidal and self-Injurious behavior in correctional facilities: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Rates of suicide and self-harm are elevated in carceral institutions. Inmates are a vulnerable group since they are exposed to multiple risk factors. This paper critically reviews empirical research on programs to prevent suicidal and self-harmful behaviors in correctional facilities and summarizes effect sizes across studies.

METHODS

We searched PsychINFO, PubMed, IEEEXPLORE and the CRISE Documentation Centre Database to identify relevant articles published before June 2022. Inclusion criteria were: peer-reviewed and with outcome data on effectiveness of prevention activities. Two reviewers independently assessed 905 articles to determine inclusion eligibility. Quality was assessed by two independent reviewers using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Meta-analyses using random-effect models were used to pool effect sizes for each outcome. This review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

FINDINGS

Twenty-four of the 905 articles, published between 1980 and 2022, were included. Studies were frequently conducted in the United States (n=13; 54%) and used varying study designs; most frequently pre-post with no control group (n=9; 38%). Sample sizes and interventions varied considerably. Most were of moderate quality (n=21; 88%). On average, prevention programs in correctional facilities were effective in decreasing suicide deaths (pooled rate ratio of 0·35 [95% CI 0·23 to 0·55; p<0·001]; I²=68·01%), incidents of self-harm (pooled Hedges'g of -0·54 (95% CI: -1·03 to -0·05; p=0·031]; I²=81·34%), and suicidal ideation (pooled Hedges'g of -0·39 [95% CI: -0·65 to -0·14; p=0·003]; I²=47·09%).

INTERPRETATION

Prevention activities are effective in reducing suicide death, self-harm and suicidal ideation in correctional settings. Multicomponent programs, which include several preventive activities, seem to be most effective in reducing suicide deaths. Future evaluation studies should control for confounding variables by including control groups, having larger samples and limiting attrition. Standards for suicide prevention in jails and prisons should be included in National suicide prevention strategies.

FUNDING

None.

Prevalence and risk factors for suicide attempts in prison

Suicidal behaviour represents a substantial burden of morbidity and mortality in prisons worldwide. We aimed to synthesise the evidence on prevalence and risk factors for suicide attempts during incarceration. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched four bibliographic databases for studies (published up to May 31, 2022) reporting on adults sampled from the general prison population who attempted suicide while incarcerated and an unselected comparison group. A total of 20 studies comprising 19,882 individuals (6.5% women) in 20 countries were eligible for inclusion. The pooled prevalence of suicide attempts during incarceration was 8.6% (95% CI 6.1-11.2) in men and 12.2% (95% CI 7.1-17.2) in women. Across all 36 risk factors studied, the strongest associations were found for suicidal ideation, previous self-harm, and markers of psychiatric morbidity. Prison-related risk factors included solitary confinement, victimisation, and poor social support while incarcerated. Sensitivity analyses indicate that risk factors for near-lethal suicide attempts are similar to those for suicide attempts more generally. In addition to providing a synthesis of previous work, our systematic review highlights several key limitations of the extant literature, which provide directions for future research.

Prevalence and characteristics associated with firearm ownership among low-income U.S. veterans

This study examined the prevalence of firearm ownership among low-income U.S. military veterans and associated sociodemographic, trauma, and clinical characteristics. Data were analyzed from a nationally representative study of low-income U.S. veterans conducted in 2021 (n = 1,004). Hierarchical logistic regression analyses identified characteristics associated with firearm ownership and mental health correlates of firearm ownership. The results revealed 41.7% of low-income U.S. veterans (95% confidence interval [CI] = 38.7-44.8%) reported owning firearms in their household. Controlling for other factors, firearms owners were significantly more likely to be male and living in their own house. There were no significant associations between trauma exposure (history of assault, unwanted social contact, death of close friend/family, homelessness) or mental health characteristics (history of bipolar disorder, suicide attempt, drug use problems) with firearm ownership. In conclusion, two of five low-income U.S. veterans own a firearm; the prevalence of firearm ownership is higher among men and homeowners. Targeted research on these key segments of the U.S. veteran population and ways to mitigate their firearm misuse may be needed.

Autism and the criminal justice system: An analysis of 93 cases

We investigate whether autistic people's vulnerability is taken into account at each stage of the criminal justice system (CJS). Defense lawyers from 12 nations were included in the study although the sample was predominantly from the UK. Lawyers completed an online survey regarding one case in which they had defended an autistic client between January 2015 and January 2020; and on one case in which they had defended a nonautistic client charged with a similar offense, to provide a comparison group. Ninety-three lawyers (85% in the UK) reported on one autistic case, and 53 also reported on one nonautistic case. 75% of autistic clients were not given reasonable adjustments during the process. Only 43% were offered an appropriate adult during police investigations, even though they had an existing diagnosis of autism. 59% of prosecution barristers and 46% of judges said or did something during the trial that made the lawyers concerned that they did not have an adequate understanding of autism. Lawyers were 7.58 times more likely to be concerned about their autistic client's effective participation in court and were 3.83 times more likely to be concerned that their autistic clients would engage in self-harm, compared with their nonautistic clients. There is a failure to identify and address autistic peoples' disability within the CJS. There is a need for mandatory autism training for police officers and the judiciary, with a focus on identifying autism and understanding the needs of autistic people so that reasonable adjustments are offered in all cases. LAY SUMMARY: This study sought to investigate if the needs of autistic people are being overlooked by the police and other professionals within the CJS. Results show that autistic people are not always given the support they need during police questioning or in court. The experience of being involved with the police may also have a more negative impact on autistic peoples' mental health than that of nonautistic people.

Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviour in Prisons: A Literature Review

Suicide is a global public health concern that affects all echelons of society, albeit not equally so. Compared with adults in the general population, incarcerated offenders are at increased risk to consider, attempt, and die by suicide, which represents a substantial burden of morbidity and mortality in prisons worldwide. This review synthesises recent literature pertaining to the epidemiology, risk factors, and prevention of suicidal thoughts and behaviour among prisoners, and outlines a framework which emphasises the interplay between individuals (importation) and their surroundings (deprivation). The available evidence suggests that prison-specific stressors may exacerbate risk of suicide in an already vulnerable population characterised by complex health and social care needs. Emerging data point to differential mechanisms through which prisoners come to think about suicide and subsequently progress to suicidal behaviour. As risk of suicide is determined by a complex web of synergistically interacting factors, its management and prevention demands a cross-sectoral policy and service response that includes targeted interventions aimed at high-risk prisoners in combination with population strategies that promote the health and wellbeing of all people in prison.

The mental health of ex-prisoners: analysis of the 2014 English National Survey of Psychiatric Morbidity

PURPOSE

Prisoners experience extremely high rates of psychiatric disturbance. However, ex-prisoners have never previously been identified in representative population surveys to establish how far this excess persists after release. Our purpose was to provide the first community-based estimate of ex-prisoners' mental health in England using the data from the 2014 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS).

METHODS

APMS 2014 provides cross-sectional data from a random sample (N = 7546) of England's household population aged 16 or above. Standardised instruments categorised psychiatric disorders and social circumstances. Participants who had been in prison were compared with the rest of the sample.

RESULTS

One participant in seventy had been in prison (1.4%; 95% CI 1.1-1.7; n = 103). Ex-prisoners suffered an excess of current psychiatric problems, including common mental disorders (CMDs), psychosis, post-traumatic disorder, substance dependence, and suicide attempts. They were more likely to screen positive for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autistic traits, to have low verbal IQ, and to lack qualifications. They disclosed higher rates of childhood adversity, including physical and sexual abuse and local authority care. The odds (1.88; 95% CI 1.02-3.47) of CMDs were nearly doubled in ex-prisoners, even after adjusting for trauma and current socioeconomic adversity.

CONCLUSIONS

Prison experience is a marker of enduring psychiatric vulnerability, identifying an important target population for intervention and support. Moreover, the psychiatric attributes of ex-prisoners provide the context for recidivism. Without effective liaison between the criminal justice system and mental health services, the vulnerability of ex-prisoners to relapse and to reoffending will continue, with consequent personal and societal costs.

People in Custody With a Suicidal History: An Ideation-to-Action Perspective Involving Individuals Incarcerated in Two U.S. Jails

OBJECTIVE

Despite high suicide mortality in U.S. jails, little is known about the cognitive (ideation) and behavioral (attempt) spectrum of suicide risk in this population. Identifying factors associated with the development of suicidal ideation, as well as the translation of thoughts to acts of suicide, is important for suicide prevention.

METHOD

Using data from a cross-sectional study conducted in 2018-2019, we investigated suicidal ideation and attempt among 548 individuals incarcerated in jail in the United States. Specifically, we compared those with suicidal ideation (n = 212) to those without suicidal ideation (n = 336), as well as compared those who had experienced suicidal ideation and attempted suicide (n = 114) to those who thought about suicide without making an attempt (n = 98), on a range of sociodemographic and clinical factors.

RESULTS

Over one-third (38.7%) of participants had a history of suicidal ideation, whereas 23.3% had attempted suicide. In the adjusted analyses, a family history of suicide (OR = 2.09), drug use (OR = 2.26), social support (OR = 0.61), and self-harm (OR = 24.93) were linked to suicidal ideation. No wish to live (OR = 5.26) and interpersonal violence while intoxicated (OR = 2.41) were associated with the progression from suicidal ideation to a suicide attempt.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with extant theoretical and empirical work, findings suggest that factors linked to the development of suicidal cognitions differ from those underlying the progression from suicidal ideation to a (non-lethal) suicide attempt.HIGHLIGHTSSuicidal risk is particularly high among individuals who are incarcerated in jail.Factors linked to suicidal ideation differ from those underlying acts of suicide.Ideators and attempters possess a different set of targets for intervention.

Stressful life events among incarcerated women and men: Association with depression, loneliness, hopelessness, and suicidality

BACKGROUND

Justice-involved populations report a higher than average number of pre-incarceration stressful life events. However, few studies have described stressful life events which occur during incarceration, explored gender differences in these events, or evaluated the effect of these events on well-being.

METHOD

This study draws from a sample of male and female adults incarcerated in 6 prison facilities across two states (n = 160) to identify the number and type of stressful life events they experienced during incarceration, gender differences in stressful events, and the relationship between stressful life events and markers of well-being (i.e., depression, hopelessness, loneliness, suicidality). We also examined whether perceived social support would buffer the relationship between stressful events and well-being outcomes.

RESULTS

Participants on average reported experiencing 4 stressful life events during their current incarceration, the most common being relocation to another cell and being made fun of/insulted by someone in the prison. There were few gender differences in types of events experienced. Regression analyses showed that stressful life events were associated with more loneliness, as well as suicidality, but only when participants had low perceived social support.

CONCLUSIONS

Stressful life events, and drawing on social support networks to cope with stress, should be addressed in the context of correctional treatments to reduce suicide risk during incarceration.

Considering the impact of COVID-19 on suicide risk among individuals in prison and during reentry

PURPOSE -

This paper mains to bring attention to the potential impact COVID-19 could have on suicide risk among individuals who are incarcerated and those reentering the community after incarceration (i.e. reentry), with particular emphasis on the USA, as well as provide possible solutions to mitigate suicide risk.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH -

This paper provides an overview of the association between the COVID-19 pandemic policies and suicide, the vulnerabilities specific to prisoners during the COVID-19 pandemic, relevant suicide risk factors among prisoners, the possible impact of COVID-19 on suicide risk during reentry and proposed solutions for moving forward to mitigate both risks for COVID-19 and suicide.

FINDINGS -

This paper highlights that prisoners and individuals reentering the community are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 and suicide risk and COVID-19-related stressors may further exacerbate known suicide risk factors (e.g. psychiatric symptoms, lack of positive social ties, low feelings of belonging, feelings of burden, economic problems) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This paper also discusses barriers (e.g. lack of funds, access to health and mental health care, COVID-19 testing and personal protective equipment) to managing COVID-19 and suicide risk within prisons and during reentry.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE -

This paper provides a review of scalable solutions that could mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and suicide risk during this pandemic among prisoners and those reentering the community, such as psychoeducation, self-help stress management, telehealth services, increased access and reduced cost of phone calls, reduced or eliminated cost of soap and sanitization supplies in prisons and early release programs.

Self-harm and suicidality among three subgroups of male sex offenders: results from an Australian prisoner cohort

OBJECTIVE

Prisoners complete suicide and self-harm more frequently than members of the community. Sex offenders have been found to be at greater risk of engaging in these behaviours. This study examines the characteristics, prevalence, and predictors of self-harm and suicide attempts among: sex offenders that only victimise children (ChildSOs); adults (AdultSOs); or both (age-crossover polymorphous; PolySOs).

METHODS

Data from three waves (1996, 2001, 2009) of the New South Wales (NSW) Inmate Health Survey was linked to the State's re-offending database to identify men with histories of sexual offending. The health surveys captured self-report data on self-harm and suicidality.

RESULTS

Non-sexual violent offenders (15%) and AdultSOs (14%) had the highest rate of self-harm, significantly more than ChildSOs (11%), non-sexual non-violent offenders (10%), and PolySOs (0%). Several factors significantly predicted self-harm at the bivariate level for both ChildSOs and AdultSOs, with unique predictors for each group. At the multivariate level, manic-depression trended towards significance for ChildSOs and any mental health condition remained a significant predictor for AdultSOs who self-harmed relative to AdultSOs who had not (aOR = 11.989, 95%CI [1.14, 126.66]). Approximately 23% of AdultSOs, 22% of PolySOs, and 19% of ChildSOs reported a suicide attempt throughout their lifetime, whereas only 15% of non-sexual non-violent offenders reported an attempt. At the bivariate level, few factors were significant for ChildSOs while several factors were significant for AdultSOs. At the multivariate level, a diagnosis of depression and treatment with psychiatric medication trended towards being significant predictors of suicide attempts for ChildSOs. In contrast, treatment with psychiatric medication (aOR = 25.732, 95%CI [1.91, 347.19])] remained a significant predictor for AdultSOs who attempted suicide relative to AdultSOs who had not, as well as historical psychiatric hospitalisation (aOR = 6.818, 95%CI [1.04, 44.82]) and self-harm (aOR = 5.825, 95%CI [1.31, 25.99]).

CONCLUSION

Sex offenders are at significantly higher risk of attempting and completing suicide relative to non-sexual non-violent offenders and warrant special attention. The prevalence rates and predictors of self-harm and suicidality suggest differences between sex offender subgroups may exist. These hold implications for the criminal justice and public health systems for addressing needs and identifying those most at risk of self-harm and suicide.

Associations of substance abuse histories and gambling addiction history with post-traumatic stress symptoms and depressive symptoms among Chinese prisoners

Background: Although there are over two million prisoners in China, few studies have reported the prevalence and correlates of mental health problems in this population. Objective: This study investigated the prevalence rates of trauma exposure, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression among Chinese male prisoners and further examined the associations of substance abuse histories and gambling addiction history with PTSD and depressive symptoms. Method: Participants were 1,484 male prisoners (mean age 35.44 years, sd = 9.66) recruited from a large prison in Guangdong, China. Self-administered standardized questionnaires were used to assess trauma exposure, histories of substance abuse and perceived gambling addiction, social supports, childhood trauma, PTSD and depression. Criminal background information was extracted from jail record. Linear regressions were performed to examine the correlates of PTSD and depressive symptoms. Results: Of these participants, 78.8% had experienced at least one trauma exposure, 26.7% had drug addiction, 85.5% had smoked cigarettes, 70.8% had used alcohol and 21.4% had gambling addiction before incarceration. The prevalence rates of PTSD and depression were 7.1% and 28.8%, respectively. Trauma exposure was significantly associated with PTSD and depressive symptoms, but not substance abuse histories and gambling history except for drinking. Histories of drinking and perceived gambling addiction were significantly related to PTSD and depressive symptoms after adjustment of demographics, criminal background, health status, social supports, childhood trauma and lifetime traumatic exposure. Conclusions: Trauma exposure, PTSD and depression are common among prisoners. Furthermore, this study for the first time demonstrates a significant relationship between gambling addiction history and PTSD.

A Local Review on the Use of a Bio-Psycho-Social Model in School-Based Mental Health Promotion

Background: Schools are a key setting for student well-being promotion. Various school-based mental health programs have been implemented worldwide, with greater emphasis placed on psychological and social aspects. The bio-psycho-social model provides a holistic and integrated view of mental health based on theory and research evidence. Given the importance of considering all three dimensions in mental health promotion, this study explored reasons for the relative neglect of this approach by studying the early phase of school well-being program development and implementation. Method: In total, 77 Hong Kong government-funded student well-being programs implemented in 2000-2009 were reviewed for the use of biological, psychological, and social interventions. Questionnaires and interviews were conducted to explore program leaders' usage and views regarding theoretical frameworks and evidence-based practice and program evaluation. Challenges encountered in the initial stage of school well-being program development and implementation were identified and analyzed. Results: Of the 77 programs reviewed, only 5 addressed all three bio-psycho-social factors of mental health. A significantly greater number of programs addressed psychological (n = 63) and social (n = 40) factors compared to those that covered biological factors of mental health (n = 13). Of 24 program implementers who responded to the online survey, 75% claimed to have studied or applied a theoretical framework yet only 41.7% considered evidence-based practices to be important. The majority of interviewed participants valued their own practical experience over theory and research evidence. Many programs lacked rigorous evaluation of clear objectives and measurable outcomes, thus the mechanisms of change and program effectiveness were uncertain. Perceived barriers to program adoption and continuation were identified. Conclusion: This study highlighted a neglect of the biological contribution to mental health in school well-being promotion initiatives, possibly due to lack of theoretical knowledge and evidence-based practice among program leaders and implementers in the early phase of school mental health promotion. The bio-psycho-social model should therefore be recommended for student well-being programs as a holistic and integrated theory of mental health underpinning program objectives, mechanisms of change, and measurable outcomes. To develop effective practices in student well-being promotion, more thorough documentation, a rigorous evaluation framework, and support for frontline educators to evaluate their practices were recommended.

Factors associated with the transition from suicidal ideation to suicide attempt in prison

BACKGROUND

Although research has identified a wide range of risk factors for suicidal behavior in prisoners, it does not establish who is most likely to act on their suicidal thoughts while incarcerated.

METHODS

Self-report data were collected from a random sample of 1,203 adult men incarcerated across 15 prisons in Belgium, who represent 12% of all male prisoners nationwide.

RESULTS

One-third (33%) of participants reported having suicidal thoughts during their incarceration, of whom 26% attempted suicide in prison (9% of all prisoners). Factors independently associated with suicide attempt among prisoners with suicidal ideation were violent offending (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.33-5.23), in-prison drug use (aOR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.25-4.22), exposure to suicidal behavior (aOR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.04-3.68), and a lifetime history of nonsuicidal self-injury (aOR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.08-3.36). While related to suicidal thoughts, markers of psychiatric morbidity and aspects of the prison regime were not associated with the progression to suicide attempt.

CONCLUSIONS

Many prisoners who think about suicide do not attempt suicide while incarcerated. Factors associated with suicidal ideation are distinct from those that govern the transition to suicidal behavior. Our findings lend support to the hypothesis that behavioral disinhibition might act as a catalyst in the translation of suicidal thoughts into action.

What Differentiates Prisoners Who Attempt Suicide from Those Who Experience Suicidal Ideation? A Nationally Representative Study

OBJECTIVE

Many people who think about suicide do not engage in suicidal behavior. Identifying risk factors implicated in the process of behavioral enaction is crucial for suicide prevention, particularly in high-risk groups such as prisoners.

METHOD

Cross-sectional data were drawn from a nationally representative sample of 17,891 prisoners (79% men) in the United States. We compared prisoners who attempted suicide (attempters; n = 2,496) with those who thought about suicide but never made an attempt (ideators; n = 1,716) on a range of established risk factors.

RESULTS

More than half (59%) of participants who experienced suicidal ideation had also attempted suicide. Violent offending, trauma, brain injury, alcohol abuse, and certain mental disorders distinguished attempters from ideators.

CONCLUSION

Our results fit within recent ideation-to-action theories that emphasize the role of a capability for suicide in the transition from thoughts to acts of suicide.

Risk factors for self-harm in prison: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Self-harm is a leading cause of morbidity in prisoners. Although a wide range of risk factors for self-harm in prisoners has been identified, the strength and consistency of effect sizes is uncertain. We aimed to synthesise evidence and assess the risk factors associated with self-harm inside prison.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) for observational studies on risk factors for self-harm in prisoners published from database inception to Oct 31, 2019, supplemented through correspondence with authors of studies. We included primary studies involving adults sampled from general prison populations who self-harmed in prison and a comparison group without self-harm in prison. We excluded studies with qualitative or ecological designs, those that reported on lifetime measures of self-harm or on selected samples of prisoners, and those with a comparison group that was not appropriate or not based on general prison populations. Data were extracted from the articles and requested from study authors. Our primary outcome was the risk of self-harm for risk factors in prisoners. We pooled effect sizes as odds ratios (OR) using random effects models for each risk factor examined in at least three distinct samples. We assessed study quality on the basis of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and examined between-study heterogeneity. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42018087915.

FINDINGS

We identified 35 independent studies from 20 countries comprising a total of 663 735 prisoners, of whom 24 978 (3·8%) had self-harmed in prison. Across the 40 risk factors examined, the strongest associations with self-harm in prison were found for suicide-related antecedents, including current or recent suicidal ideation (OR 13·8, 95% CI 8·6-22·1; I2=49%), lifetime history of suicidal ideation (8·9, 6·1-13·0; I2=56%), and previous self-harm (6·6, 5·3-8·3; I2=55%). Any current psychiatric diagnosis was also strongly associated with self-harm (8·1, 7·0-9·4; I2=0%), particularly major depression (9·3, 2·9-29·5; I2=91%) and borderline personality disorder (9·2, 3·7-22·5; I2=81%). Prison-specific environmental risk factors for self-harm included solitary confinement (5·6, 2·7-11·6; I2=98%), disciplinary infractions (3·5, 1·2-9·7; I2=99%), and experiencing sexual or physical victimisation while in prison (3·2, 2·1-4·8; I2=44%). Sociodemographic (OR range 1·5-2·5) and criminological (1·8-2·3) factors were only modestly associated with self-harm in prison. We did not find clear evidence of publication bias.

INTERPRETATION

The wide range of risk factors across clinical and custody-related domains underscores the need for a comprehensive, prison-wide approach towards preventing self-harm in prison. This approach should incorporate both population and targeted strategies, with multiagency collaboration between the services for mental health, social care, and criminal justice having a key role.

FUNDING

Wellcome Trust.