Post Incarceration Syndrome

Post Incarceration Syndrome" is a psychological condition affecting individuals who have been incarcerated. It involves symptoms like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and difficulties adjusting to life outside of incarceration.

Connected to PTSD, Post-Incarceration Syndrome™ (PICS)™ delineates a cluster of symptoms manifesting when an individual undergoes imprisonment. Within these settings, individuals encounter persistent, daily trauma marked by violence, degradation, and the deprivation of fundamental needs. PICS, experienced by both those who have survived incarceration and those still within its confines, contributes to a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, relapses in drug and mental health, violence, poverty, and the likelihood of recriminalization.

Despite variations in terminology, the amalgamation of symptoms associated with PICS remains consistent. It is crucial to note that the term "post" in PICS does not signify release from incarceration but denotes the experience of having been incarcerated.

Initial research on PICS often employed dehumanizing language and carried stigmatizing, paternalistic undertones. Terence Gorski's introduction of the term "PICS" formally established a clear connection between incarceration and the onset or intensification of mental health issues, addiction, and related challenges. While Craig Haney explored aspects of "post-prison adjustment" following the "pains of imprisonment," other researchers delved into similar symptomatology arising from "institutionalization" and "prisonization." Marieke Liem, after extensive research on long-term imprisonment effects, found the term "PICS" particularly apt.

PICS casts a shadow over various aspects of our community, elevating the risk of chronic unemployment and homelessness, among other issues. a noteworthy initiative in mental health research led by Dr. Racheal Nolan of the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Chazidy Bowman, the Executive Director of Opportunities Peoples Justice Leaders/ SOAR 40:30 Foundation and Nicole Wiesen, MSW COO SOAR 40:30 Foundation. Our collaborative endeavor centers around the research study on Post Incarceration Syndrome™ (PICS), a comprehensive exploration aimed at distinguishing PICS™ from PTSD due to its unique effects and dynamics. Our immediate objective is to encourage colleges and universities to incorporate this research study into their mental health education programs. By doing so, we aim to equip incoming & current mental health professionals with a thorough understanding of PICS, ensuring their readiness for the challenges they may encounter in their professional journeys.

We firmly believe that by disseminating this research to as many institutions as possible, we can contribute to a broader comprehension of PICS. Our long-term goal is for PICS to be recognized as a distinct disorder. Although it shares some components with PTSD, our research underscores the importance of differentiating between the two to address the nuanced needs of those affected by PICS.Beyond advancing academic understanding, our commitment extends to reducing recidivism rates across the country. Recognizing PICS within the mental health profession enables us to cultivate a cohort of relatable professionals capable of making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals post-incarceration.

We kindly seek your support in advocating for the adoption of our research study in mental health education. Your influence and dedication to advancing mental health awareness can significantly contribute to our collective goal of improving the lives of those affected by post-incarceration syndrome. If you or a loved on have experience PICS ,please take our survey https://redcap.link/ustg34yp