Suicidal Ideation in a Sample of Incarcerated Men

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Incarcerated populations experience significant health disparities.
• Mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation, are prevalent in correctional facilities.
• Understanding risk factors for suicidal thoughts among incarcerated men is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine factors associated with thoughts of ending life in a sample of incarcerated men.
• To explore the relationship between race/ethnicity, solitary confinement, and suicidal ideation.
• To investigate the perceived risk of attack or abuse from prison officers.

Main Methods:

• Data collected from the Cancer Risk in Incarcerated Men Study (2015-2017).
• Pilot study included 225 male smokers across three northeastern US state prisons.
• Analysis focused on the 11 participants reporting thoughts of ending life.

Main Results:

• Thoughts of ending life were significantly associated with race/ethnicity (Latino and White participants).
• A history of solitary confinement was reported by the majority of those with suicidal thoughts.
• Nearly half of all participants perceived a risk of attack or abuse from prison officers.

Conclusions:

• Race/ethnicity and solitary confinement appear to be associated with suicidal thoughts in incarcerated men.
• The findings highlight the need for further investigation into mental health symptomatology and suicidal behavior in this population.
• Perceived threats from prison officers may also warrant further examination in relation to mental well-being.