Category: Mental Health & Wellness Resources
When the Streets Feel Like Your Only Option, There Is Another Way
Gang involvement and gang violence often starts with the search for belonging, protection, or a way to get by. No matter where you are today, your story is not finished. Another path is possible. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be standing at a crossroads. Maybe you're worried about a [...]
How Far Would You Go Just to Fit In? When Peer Pressure Gets Real.
For a lot of young people, saying no can feel suspect. Often, it’s not about wanting to break the rules, but about not wanting to be the one who stands out and gets picked on. Maybe you go along with things because you’re scared of what will happen if you don’t. For families, it’s hard [...]
You’re Home—Now What? Your Guide to Life After Prison
It’s over. No more prison. You step out, but suddenly the world feels bigger, faster, and a lot less forgiving than you remember. Maybe you don’t have a job lined up, or a place to stay, or even an ID. And if there’s no reentry program waiting for you, the odds can feel stacked from [...]
A New Beginning—Part 5
As Marcus continued his journey of recovery, he began to notice changes in his mood and behavior. He found himself feeling increasingly anxious and depressed, struggling to sleep at night and concentrate during the day. Marcus realized he needed to address these mental health issues to maintain his overall well-being and sobriety. Recognizing the Signs [...]
Reentry Checklist: Strategies for a Smooth Transition
As you prepare to transition back into the community after incarceration, you may feel overwhelmed. It's natural to feel uncertain about where to begin or how to tackle the obstacles that come with reentry. However, it's important to remember that you are not alone on this journey, and there are resources available to support you [...]
Closing the Health Insurance Gap for Justice-impacted Individuals
Justice-impacted individuals often find themselves facing a significant health gap, with limited access to essential medical services. According to a report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, released in 2022, formerly incarcerated individuals are more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions, mental health issues, and substance use disorders compared to the general population. Source: [...]
Free Resources to Champion a Smooth Reentry
Returning to the community after incarceration presents a unique set of challenges for individuals as well as their loved ones. It's a time of both hope and uncertainty, requiring dedication, support, and access to the right resources. Whether you are facing reentry directly or supporting a loved one, knowing where and how to find available [...]
The Benefits of Tattoo Removal
Upon reentry, tattoos can serve as a constant and painful reminder of the past. Seeing these visible marks everyday may reinforce an identity that you no longer align with and can be a barrier to moving on personally and professionally. Removing tattoos can be a powerful way to symbolize change and grant you the mental [...]
How to Deal With Treatment Fatigue
You may not be familiar with the term treatment fatigue, or the effects it can have on your reentry success. The reentry treatment process can feel like a full-time job in the early stages of your transition, leaving you feeling emotionally and physically drained.There are programs available to help you with the high cost of [...]
Finding Help & Support: A Look at Free Mental Health Resources from NAMI & SAMHSA
In today's world, mental health has become increasingly important. One of the biggest challenges after incarceration is finding the right resources for your peace of mind. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, there are free mental health resources that can help. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and [...]
