Peer suicide prevention in a prison.

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Correctional facilities face high suicide rates, exceeding those in the general population.
• Traditional suicide prevention strategies relying solely on correctional staff have limitations.
• Inmate-led peer prevention offers a potential alternative for suicide intervention in prisons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the effectiveness and feasibility of the "SAMS in the Pen" program, a novel inmate peer support initiative.
• To assess the perceptions of inmates and staff regarding the SAMS program's value and impact.

Main Methods:

• The study evaluated the "SAMS in the Pen" program, a collaboration between a prison and the Samaritans of Southern Alberta.
• Inmate volunteers (SAMS) received training in listening, suicide prevention, and risk assessment.
• Data were gathered from inmate volunteers, correctional staff, the general inmate population, and professional staff.

Main Results:

• The "SAMS in the Pen" program, the first of its kind in Canada, encountered developmental issues common to new services.
• Despite limitations in statistical analysis due to small numbers, the program was perceived positively.
• Both inmates and prison staff viewed the SAMS initiative as a valuable service.

Conclusions:

• The SAMS in the Pen program demonstrates the potential of inmate peer support in prison suicide prevention.
• Further development and implementation of such programs could enhance mental health support within correctional settings.
• Addressing prison suicide requires innovative approaches, including the engagement of the inmate population in prevention efforts.