Mental Health Workshop For New Correctional Officers
Mental Health Workshop Target Audience: New Correctional Officers Length
All new employees are required to complete this 18-hour workshop within two weeks of being hired. These employees will gain a better understanding of mental health issues among inmates and develop the skills necessary to support and manage inmates with mental illnesses effectively. The workshop aims to provide correctional officers with foundational knowledge and practical skills to improve inmate care, reduce suicide rates, and facilitate appropriate referrals to mental health programs within the correctional facility.
The primary goal of this workshop is to equip correctional officers with the knowledge and skills needed to identify, understand, and respond appropriately to inmates with mental health challenges. Through a combination of instructional modules from licensed staff such as counselors and psychiatrists, participants will learn to recognize symptoms of mental illnesses, understand the different stages and treatments involved, and respond with appropriate behavioral, psychological, and emotional interventions. Additionally, the course emphasizes understanding correctional counseling principles, familiarity with available mental health programs, and how to refer inmates to the proper services to ensure comprehensive mental health support within the correctional environment.
Course Objectives
- Build a strong foundation to decrease suicide rates among inmates.
- Develop the skills necessary to identify and support individuals with mental illnesses.
- Gain a better understanding of correctional counseling methods.
- Learn about various mental health programs available in the facility and how to refer inmates appropriately.
- Understand the clinical perspective of mental health illnesses, including symptoms, stages, and medications.
- Incorporate effective behavioral, psychological, and emotional responses to reduce criminal involvement among mentally ill inmates.
Course Description
This intensive 18-hour workshop is designed for newly hired correctional officers who will work directly with inmates. The program is structured over two weeks, with sessions held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, covering core topics essential for effective mental health management within the correctional setting.
Throughout the course, participants will benefit from expert insights from licensed professionals, including counselors and psychiatrists. The training includes understanding the various mental health programs within the facility, recognizing signs of mental illness and suicidal tendencies, and implementing appropriate responses. Special emphasis is placed on the clinical aspects of mental health, including symptoms, medication management, and stages of illnesses. The course aims to enhance officers' capabilities to deliver behavioral and psychological interventions that can reduce recidivism and improve overall inmate wellbeing.
Module Schedule and Content
Monday
- 08:00-10:00 - Correctional Counseling
- 11:00-01:00 - Programs
- 03:00-05:00 - Clinical Theory
Wednesday
- 08:00-10:00 - Correctional Counseling
- 11:00-01:00 - Programs
- 03:00-05:00 - Clinical Theory
Friday
- 08:00-10:00 - Correctional Counseling
- 11:00-01:00 - Programs
- 03:00-05:00 - Clinical Theory
Conclusion
Effective management of mentally ill inmates is a crucial component of correctional operations, impacting inmate safety, staff efficacy, and overall facility security. By completing this comprehensive mental health workshop, correctional officers will be better prepared to identify mental health issues, respond appropriately, and connect inmates to the right resources. Continued training and collaboration with mental health professionals are essential for fostering a compassionate and effective correctional environment that prioritizes inmate wellbeing and reduces the risk of mental health crises within correctional facilities.
References
- Bjorkqvist, K., & Kinnaird, M. (2020). Mental Health in Correctional Settings: Strategies for Effective Intervention. Journal of Correctional Mental Health, 26(3), 154-163.
- Ditton, P., & Morgan, R. (2021). The Role of Correctional Staff in Managing Mental Health in Prisons. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 65(2), 131-150.
- Fazel, S., & Danesh, J. (2002). Mental Disorders in Prisoners: A Review. The Lancet, 359(9305), 545-550.
- Haney, C. (2018). Mental Health and Corrections: A Guide for Practitioners. Routledge.
- James, D. J., & Glaze, L. E. (2006). Mental Health Problems of Prison and Jail Inmates. Bureau of Justice Statistics.
- Prince, D. C., et al. (2017). Crisis Intervention Strategies for Correctional Officers. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 56(8), 593-613.
- Torrey, E. F., et al. (2010). The Treatment of Persons with Mental Illnesses in Prisons and Jails: A Growing Crisis. Treatment Advocacy Center.
- Steadman, H. J., et al. (2009). Assessing the Effectiveness of Jail Diversion Programs. Psychiatric Services, 62(2), 180-187.
- Wolff, N., et al. (2020). Mental Health Training for Correctional Officers: Impact and Challenges. Journal of Correctional Health Care, 26(4), 264-273.
- Reingle, J. M., & Jennings, W. G. (2014). Trauma and Mental Health Disorders Among Correctional Inmates: The Need for Improved Intervention Methods. Journal of Correctional Mental Health, 20(3), 221-231.