NCJ Number
196192
Date Published
1999
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This paper analyzes the prevalence and causes of inmate suicides in Canadian custodial institutions and suggests ways to prevent it.
Abstract
Suicide in correctional facilities is more prevalent than in the general population and constitutes the leading cause of death for those in custody. Several factors have been found to correlate with prison suicides, including the security of the facility, the crime committed to cause the inmate's incarceration, and the inmate's phase of imprisonment. Inmate-related factors in suicide risk include feelings of depression and hopelessness, mental disorder, suicidal thoughts, and pre-incarceration suicidal behaviors. Primary and secondary prevention efforts are both ways that correctional facilities have attempted to reduce the suicide rate; however, although Correctional Service of Canada has mounted efforts to reduce inmate suicide, suicide prevention remains a low priority for Canadian correctional institutions. The key to intervention programs lies in the accurate communication of relevant information regarding the past or recent behavior of suicidal inmates. The individual facts of each case suggest which method of intervention is most appropriate for the individual inmate. Greater significance must be given to the inmate's environment, including the importance of providing activities to relieve stress. Suicide prevention must be a joint responsibility of staff, medical and psychiatric personnel, family and friends, and other inmates. Few jails and prisons have so far succeeded in consistently and effectively detecting and intervening in incidents of inmate suicidal behavior. The prevention of inmate suicide must also rely on the more discriminate and appropriate use of incarceration, keeping less serious offenders in the community and making better use of mental health facilities for inmates with mental health problems. 13 references