Mental health is a very prominent subject today, yet it is not taken seriously. Those who have been pulled over by the police or have been arrested for any reason are more deeply affected than how they might seem on the surface.
An arrest is an extremely stressful experience that results in extreme fear. This takes a toll on the mental health of people, whether the arrest is lawful or not. Experts have established a link between arrests, incarceration, and PTSD. Here’s more on the subject:
What is PTSD?
PTSD refers to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This disorder is triggered by an incident that instills deep fear in a person. PTSD occurs when a person has undergone a terrifying event or has witnessed it. Symptoms of this disorder range from realistic flashbacks, nightmares, uncontrollable thoughts about the said event, and extreme anxiety.
People who have experienced an event that has led to PTSD suffer temporarily from this disorder, while others have more long-lasting symptoms that don’t go away. Adjusting and coping with life after that incident becomes very difficult, especially if they don’t seek the help needed.
What is the link between an arrest and PTSD?
Whether a person is arrested lawfully or unlawfully, the experience is never pleasant. Those who have been arrested for the first time, in particular have a difficult time processing this information. People go into flight or fight mode and might even resist arrest and get violent when they aren’t able to contain their emotions. The arresting officers then use force to gain control of the person. Such experiences not only affect the body physically, but mentally.
Even if a person is acquitted or have served time, the flashbacks of that day can come back to haunt them. Perhaps every time someone passes by behind them they are immediately taken back to that horrific day, or anytime they are pulled over it results in a panic attack. Symptoms of PTSD differ from person to person, which is why it is important to seek help.
Is mental health being recognized in correctional centers?
Other than PTSD, inmates suffer from various mental health issues, from depression, anxiety, to more severe mental health issues like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The Sandra Band Act of 2017 requires officers to evaluate the mental health of a defendant. If the person is showing signs of a mental health issues, they are provided the treatment to get better. This law came about after an inmate took her life in prison after she was arrested. This incident led to public outcry and many questioned the justice system. As a result, this Act was passed to safeguard the lives and wellbeing of inmates.
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