Mental Health in Prison
People in prison are more likely to suffer with mental health problems than the general population and over half of people in prison report mental health issues such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety.
Mental health is often at the heart of why people commit crime and a prison sentence could be an opportunity for people to address these issues, getting the help they need and reducing the likelihood of someone reoffending on release. Unfortunately, its often a wasted opportunity as many people don’t get the help they need while they are inside, and often their mental health gets worse.
Many face long waiting lists for mental health support, disruptions in their medication, a lack of meaningful activity and some people are locked in their cells for over 22 hours a day. It is no wonder the level of mental health need is high, and its getting worse.
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93
self-inflicted deaths in prison in 2023
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21 %
y-o-y increase in self-inflicted deaths in 2023
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17 %
y-o-y increase in self-harm in prison in 2023
Read our full report: 30 minute read
The report is the second from the Nacro Justice ExChange, a network of people who have been in contact with the criminal justice system and received support from Nacro. This briefing examines:
- the level of mental health issues in prison and how people in prison who have mental health issues are identified
- the impact that the prison environment can have on people’s mental health
- the support currently available in prison and the impact all this can have on people’s ability to turn their lives around on release.
Everyone in prison has some sort of mental health issue. And when you are banged up for 23 hours a day if you don’t have a strong mind, you’re going to suffer more.Person in prison
Why we should all care about mental health in prison: 3.5 minute watch
Helen Berresford, Nacro’s Director of External Engagement, explains the key points in Nacro’s mental health in prison briefing, what some of the solutions to the mental health crisis in prison could be and why people should care about this issue.
Nacro's Justice ExChange: 2 minute listen
Member's of the Nacro's Justice ExChange explain why they wanted to look into the issue of mental health in prison, as well their personal experiences of the issue.
Listen to Tracy's story
Listen to William's story
How we help prisoners with mental health concerns
As part of our health and wellbeing services, we support people with complex needs to move forwards in their lives, including ex-offenders as well as young people, care leavers, women, and ex-service personnel.
We make sure people are involved every step of the way, that we work with their strengths and capabilities, in a person-centric way.
Find our full directory of mental health services here.
Speak to our experts
We provide regular insight and expertise for policymakers and journalists. Our team regularly work with national, regional, local, and broadcast media outlets in relation to mental health in prisons.
If you’re looking for commentary or insight into policy needs, government decisions or developing stories, contact our Media team.