Mental health – it’s a growing concern and priority, which we’re reminded is just as, if not more, important than our physical health. 

So, what do you do to look after your own mental health?  How do you practise a bit of self-care when you’re finding life challenging, and you know your stress levels are rising? 

Maybe you go for a long walk in the fresh air (or even a jog if you are of the more energetic type!?)  A drive in the country, or even a few days away one weekend to get a change of scenery?  Maybe you prefer to be at home and soak in a hot bath with a good book?  Or dinner with friends and a wee glass of wine?  A trip to the cinema?  Or maybe you just seek some quiet space; silence – where you can pray, reflect, practice some mindfulness or simply be still. 

Of course if you are living in prison, none of these options are really possible.  Fresh air is restricted to one hour a day, and even then, it’s in a crowded exercise yard and under the watchful eye of officers.  There is no change of scenery – or even routine – sometimes for many years at a time.  Limited access to family and friends, and to those who love you the most, who understand you and who care.  And silence?  Well, that is never an option. 

In fact, prison is probably the worst place to try and maintain your mental wellbeing.  Loss of liberty, restricted movement, noise, over-crowding and cell sharing with a stranger, who may have their own mental health or addiction issues to cope with; no access to nature or pets or social activities which can help you cope.  A total sense of powerlessness over your life and future.  Constant hyper-vigilance and fear for your safety and of what may ‘kick-off’ at any moment.  Not knowing who you can trust.   

Even for the strongest and healthiest this is a difficult environment to maintain your equilibrium. 

But of course, prisoners do not tend to be the healthiest, most resilient people to start with.  According to a 2022 report by the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland, 76% of prisoners had a history of mental ill-health on reception to prison, with 60% receiving mental health support immediately prior to sentencing.  These are astronomical figures.  Add this to an increasing prison population and limited resources, it is no surprise that the same report found that 77% of SPS staff interviewed in the study expressed concerns about the level of provision available.  (And what of the mental health of those working in such an environment?) 

In such a context, small things can be so important.  Like Prison Fellowship volunteers simply showing up faithfully, with a smile on their faces and a welcome to those who are weary and struggling.  People from the outside world who are there because they care, and because they choose to be.  Offering a safe place, a quieter place, to escape the noise and pressure of the halls.  Someone different to talk to, and people who actually listen!  And that’s before the group activities even begin – with a message offering hope, grace and love…