Bringing healing to prisons and correctional systems
Prisons are stressful environments for both incarcerated people and prison staff. Studies show that, in addition to stress, incarcerated people report experiencing trauma at some point during their lifetime at significantly higher rates than the general population, with incarcerated women experiencing the highest rates. Incarceration can retraumatize people who have already survived significant trauma. Gaining the skills to heal trauma and cope with stress is an essential part of rehabilitating incarcerated people and fostering well-being among prison staff.
Indiana Department of Corrections
Our pilot program with the Indiana Department of Corrections provides both prison staff and incarcerated people with tools to heal trauma, relieve stress, and enhance resilience. Through this initiative, we are working to significantly transform the prison environment, fostering a shared understanding of the impact of trauma and the benefits of mind-body medicine in reducing anxiety and depression while enhancing resilience for both populations. The correctional staff are learning how to implement our model with their colleagues, and prisoners are similarly going to use our model with other prisoners. The most dedicated trainees will have the opportunity to pursue our Certification and/or join a local leadership team that will help organize and sustain the work beyond the initial project period. This program will lay the foundation for institutional wellness and transformation in prisons and correctional systems across the US.
This program has directly impacted a total of 925 adults to date. Both inmates and staff experienced a notable improvement in mental health, with significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress, which remained stable six months after training. Both groups also showed an increase in resilience and stronger coping skills. Three IDOC staff became certified in mind-body medicine, along with 2 in progress. Participants shared stories of trauma, their desire for healing, and the connections that they find with one another. Their contributions demonstrated both the necessity of this program and the infinite potential for healing and growth in this community.
