Surviving on the Inside

The stress associated with being a corrections officer can be immense. It’s more than just responding to incidents of violence—it also involves dealing with overcrowding in facilities, budget cuts that reduce resources available for both inmates and staff, as well as long hours spent away from family and friends (Chamberlain 2020). Working in such an environment can lead to physical trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression due to the high levels of exposure to traumatic events. Consequently, prison workers can develop secondary traumatization – a condition characterized by reactions similar to PTSD after repeated exposure to traumatic events experienced by others (Farabee et al., 2005). In addition, working in a correctional facility brings its own unique set of challenges that can affect an individual's mental wellbeing: harassment from inmates; lack of proper recognition; feelings of isolation; feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities; fear for one's safety; uncertainty about the future; racism/discrimination faced inside an institution (Chamberlain 2020). Given these issues it’s important for institutions and supervisors take steps towards addressing them so that corrections officers have access mental health services before any major crisis ensues. Mental health services should include initiatives like employee assistance programs which provide counseling support free-of-charge while offering confidentiality concerning personal matters discussed during sessions (American Correctional Association 2015). Additionally effective policies should be implemented within prisons focusing on prevention measures such reducing workplace hazards through training drills on how best respond safely in hazardous situations where violence is concerned (Logan 2016). Such measures will help facilitate better work environments while providing psychological first aid following critical incidents as well as other emotional supports needed during times of distress (Mills 2011). Overall there needs greater awareness about the psychological impact felt by those who work within correctional settings so that adequate resources are provided for their wellbeing before difficulties arise ultimately leading those who protect us vulnerable themselves. References: American Correctional Association (2015), “ACA Standards Manual", Chapter 3: Mental Health Services 5th Edition 2017 @ https://www.acaecommissionerresourcespageviews/files/Standards_Manual_2017_3rdedition_FINAL2pdf . Retrieved April 19 2021 Farabee D., Hser Y., Grella C., Phillips M & Prendergast M.(2005) Trauma symptoms among Prison Staff Journal Of Offender Rehabilitation , 41(2):17–32 Logan TK.(2016) Psychological First Aid: A Guide For Corrections Professionals National Institute Of Justice Office Of Justice Programs U S Department Of Justice @https://wwworpublicationsnijgov/indexaspx?recordid=264001 Retrieved April 192021 Mills P.(2011 ) Post incident review Critical Incident Risk Management International @ http://ccirmnet retrieved April 19 2021

Sample Solution

Correctional officers put their lives on the line every day when they enter a jail or prison. The job comes with an array of risks and dangers, including violence, substance abuse, and psychological trauma. Despite these risks, correctional officers are often overlooked when it comes to mental health support. This is why issues related to correctional officer mental health must be taken seriously if we want our correctional staffs to remain healthy and safe.