Mental Health Issues of Women After Release From Jail and Prison: A Systematic Review. (3rd May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stanton, Ann E.; Kako, Peninnah; Sawin, Kathleen J.
• Is Part Of: Issues in mental health nursing. Volume 37:Number 5(2016)
• Page Start: 299
• Page End: 331
• Publication Date: 2016-05-03
• Subjects: Psychiatric nursing -- Periodicals; Mental health personnel -- Periodicals; 616.89023105
• DOI: 10.3109/01612840.2016.1154629
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0161-2840

Abstract

Abstract : The aim of this review article is to gain an understanding of the mental health issues of women released from jail or prison. Thirty-six studies were synthesized using the biopsychosocial model. Results indicate that released women's mental health issues include psychiatric diagnoses, psychological trauma, substance use disorders; access to psychological medications and services; and motherhood challenges, support, access to basic needs, and criminalized behaviors. Nurses can promote released women's mental health through pre-release assessment and treatment of mental health issues and ensuring access to post-release resources. Future research should examine released women's mental health experiences.