Incarceration in the U.S. is no
small challenge. The journey through prison life is filled with hurdles that
can test a person’s mental, physical, and emotional resilience. However, while
serving time can feel like an uphill battle, there are certain things that can
make the experience smoother, safer, and even more productive. From self-care
essentials to mental resilience, this blog is entitled, “10 Best And Valuable Things Prisoners Should Always Have”.
Here are the 10 best and most
valuable things that incarcerated individuals should always have to better
manage their time in prison:
1. A Good Lawyer Or
Strong Knowledge Of Criminal And Appeal Laws
One of the most important assets for
any prisoner is a competent lawyer or, at the very least, having solid knowledge
of their own legal rights. Having a good lawyer can help with navigating
appeals, parole hearings, and other legal challenges that may arise during
incarceration. However, not everyone can afford a lawyer, so it's critical to know
the basics of criminal law and the appeals process. This knowledge may not only
provide a sense of control over one’s legal situation but can also open
opportunities for early release or improved conditions through legal
challenges. Knowing legal rights can
prevent prisoners from being taken advantage of and help them assert their
rights when needed. Knowledge is power in a prison system that can often feel
overwhelming.
2. Good Knowledge
Of Prison Rules, Culture, And Environment
Prison is a unique ecosystem with
its own set of rules and hierarchies. Knowing the Ins and Outs of prison
culture, including who to avoid, who to ally with, and how to navigate various
conflicts, is crucial. Prisoners who learn the unspoken rules of the
environment early are less likely to face trouble or find themselves caught in
dangerous situations. Moreover, knowing official prison rules can help inmates
avoid unnecessary disciplinary actions. Knowing both formal and informal prison
rules ensures a safer, less stressful time and reduces the chances of
escalating tensions with guards or fellow inmates.
Image Source: Pixabay
Image Source: Pixabay
3. Good Hygiene And
Commissary Products
Personal hygiene is not just about
cleanliness in prison, it’s a key part of maintaining health and respect for
self and others. Commissary items like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant are not
always provided sufficiently by a facility. Maintaining good hygiene can
protect against illnesses and infections in a shared living space.
Additionally, the possession of commissary items can be seen as a form of
status and can affect interactions with other inmates. Having certain hygiene
products can also provide a sense of control and normalcy in an otherwise harsh
environment. Good hygiene can prevent some health issues and can influence how
others perceive and treat you.
4. Good Mental Or
Coping Skills
Incarceration often comes with
stress, loneliness, and a range of emotional challenges. Developing mental
resilience and coping strategies can make the difference between barely
surviving or thriving during a prison sentence. Some coping strategies might
include meditation, journaling, reading, or engaging in creative or
recreational activities. Building emotional intelligence and learning to
process feelings productively is key to staying mentally healthy. Prison can be
emotionally grueling, so developing strong coping mechanisms is vital for
maintaining mental health and surviving the emotional strain of isolation.
5. Self-Control And
Self-Discipline
Prison environments can be hostile
and full of triggers for conflict. Self-control is essential for avoiding
fights, arguments, or even unnecessary disciplinary actions. It’s important to
remain calm, even in tense situations, and practice patience. Additionally,
self-discipline can help incarcerated individuals focus on goals that can
improve their future, whether it’s education, health, or self-improvement. Self-control can prevent violent
incidents, and self-discipline helps prisoners focus on personal growth, which
can positively affect their current and/or post-incarceration life.
Image Source: Pixabay
Image Source: Pixabay
6. Focus On
Health And Exercise
Health is often overlooked in
prison, but focusing on staying active and eating as well as possible is
critical. Many prisons provide basic exercise facilities or outdoor recreation
areas, and it’s important to take advantage of these. Regular exercise can help
alleviate stress, prevent obesity, and promote mental well-being. If healthy
food choices are limited, prisoners can still monitor portion sizes and make
the best decisions possible with what’s available. Physical health impacts mental health and staying fit can help
inmates maintain their energy and resilience, reducing the impact of prison
life on the body and mind.
7. Self-Respect And
Respect For Others
Respect goes a long way in prison.
Self-respect is about maintaining dignity, even in the face of difficult
circumstances. It helps to avoid being mistreated or exploited. Equally
important is showing respect to others whether fellow inmates or staff. Being
respectful can create a more peaceful living situation and reduces the
likelihood of altercations. Respecting
yourself and others can lead to smoother interactions, fewer conflicts, and a
better overall experience in prison.
8. Heart And
Courage
Courage in prison is not about being
the toughest person; it’s about standing up for yourself when it matters and
not allowing yourself to be bullied. Heart and courage come into play when you
face difficult decisions or unavoidable conflicts. Sometimes, it may mean
asking for help, protecting someone else, or standing firm on personal
principles. Prisoners who show courage without provoking unnecessary conflict
tend to navigate their time more safely.
9. Inside And
Outside Support
Incarceration can be isolating but
having a support system both inside and outside of prison is invaluable.
Family, friends, or organizations can visit and offer legal aid and support can
provide emotional and practical help during the sentence. On the inside,
forming positive alliances with other inmates or getting involved in programs
can provide mental and social support. Participation in religious groups,
therapy sessions, or educational programs can offer connections and improve
overall well-being. Support systems reduce feelings of isolation and
hopelessness, making the experience of incarceration more bearable.
10. Wisdom And
Discernment
Finally, prisoners should develop
the wisdom to observe and learn, know when to speak, what to say, who to trust,
who to avoid, and how to navigate various challenges. Discernment is about
reading situations carefully and making the best decision in challenging
circumstances without being impulsive and emotional. It can help avoid
unnecessary trouble and ensure smoother time in prison.
Image Source: Pixabay
Conclusion
Serving time in prison is an
incredibly difficult experience, but with the right mindset and resources, it’s
possible to make the best of the situation. By focusing on these ten valuable
things legal knowledge, respect, self-discipline, courage, and more prisoners
can navigate their time with more control, dignity, and productivity. It’s not
just about surviving incarceration; it’s about preparing to have the best life
possible during incarceration with mental and physical strength, self-respect,
and wisdom.
References
https://www.communitylawfirm.com/blog/prison-survival-guide-11-things
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756061622000349