‘I Just Couldn’t Stop Crying’: How Prison Affects Black Men’s Mental Health Long After They’ve Been Released

July 18, 2025

A nurse scientist's research reveals the severe mental health impacts of incarceration on Black men in Philadelphia. The study, published in Social Science & Medicine, interviewed 29 formerly incarcerated Black men who described experiencing trauma, racism, and violence while incarcerated, with effects lasting long after release. Many participants reported struggling with PTSD, depression, hypervigilance, and feeling "institutionalized" even years after returning to society.

Who is affected

Formerly incarcerated Black men in Philadelphia
The families and children of these men
Communities in Philadelphia where formerly incarcerated individuals return
The over 20,000 people who return home from incarceration each year in Philadelphia
Black adults in Philadelphia (1 in 14 of whom were under community supervision according to 2019 data)
People under community supervision restrictions

What action is being taken

The researcher is conducting interviews with formerly incarcerated Black men to understand incarceration's effects on mental health
The National Institute of Nursing Research is funding studies on this topic
Findings are being published in peer-reviewed journals like Social Science & Medicine
Some fathers among the participants are attempting to reconnect with and gain custody of their children

Why it matters

Incarceration causes lasting trauma and mental health issues including PTSD, depression, and psychological distress
Post-release restrictions like "no association" rules isolate people from potential support networks
About 35% of formerly incarcerated Black men remain unemployed due to hiring discrimination
Mental health challenges combine with practical barriers like unemployment and housing insecurity to create cycles of disadvantage
Children and families experience disrupted relationships and economic hardship
Impoverished neighborhoods with limited resources make recovery and stability more difficult

What's next

The researcher suggests implementing trauma-informed services, including culturally responsive counseling and peer support
Supporting formerly incarcerated individuals in rebuilding financial resources and reconnecting with family
Investing in housing, employment, and accessible health and social services in communities where formerly incarcerated people return
Developing care approaches that acknowledge the lasting effects of incarceration

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint