The holidays look differently for the about 2.3 million people incarcerated during that time of year. If your loved one is one of the hundreds of thousands of people spending the holidays in jail, you may wonder what that experience will be like for them. This post explains more.
The Emotional Toll of Spending the Holidays in Jail
The emotions associated with spending the holidays in jail are likely different for each person. These feelings probably depend greatly on how they relate to the holiday season and their past experiences. But it’s safe to say that most people don’t want to be in jail, and the holiday season likely exacerbates these feelings for many.
The holiday season is often about joy, togetherness, and celebration, but for incarcerated people, it can be a stark reminder of isolation and loss. Spending the holidays behind bars can weigh heavily on a person’s mental health. The absence of loved ones and traditions during this time can amplify feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. It also can create an even more profound sense of disconnection from the outside world.
For many inmates, the holiday season likely reminds them of what they’re missing. While others are gathering for festive meals and exchanging gifts, inmates’ routines are basically unchanged. Being unable to participate in the season’s activities with loved ones, especially children, can be painful. Holidays can be particularly difficult for incarcerated people who don’t receive contact from the outside, like a letter, card, or visit. It can make them feel abandoned or alone.
The holidays also can exacerbate pre-existing mental health concerns. About 64% of jail inmates have mental health disorders. These conditions, including depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma, can worsen during the holidays as inmates attempt to cope with the consequences of their actions and miss the lives they left behind.
“This is very important for everyone to be aware of as this isolation, in addition to mental illness, can lead to increased tension during the holidays,” said Dr. Jawaun Lewis, TK Health’s director of psychiatry and mental health services. “Thus, more conflicts and disciplinary issues may arise.”
How Inmates Celebrate the Holidays
Incarcerated people may choose to find creative ways to recognize the holidays or simply pretend they aren’t happening. Holiday celebrations in jail aren’t traditional, but people may find small ways to connect with others or recognize the season.
Many jails provide special meals on holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s. These simple meals may include items like turkey, ham, or a slice of pie to mark the occasion. Some jails may also decorate common areas for festive seasons.
Incarcerated people may also choose to use their creativity to make gifts for fellow inmates or send cards to loved ones outside the jail. These handmade items may include drawings, poetry, or crafted items. Though simple, these gestures allow Incarcerated people to express care.
Group activities can also be a part of holiday celebrations in jail. Some jails may organize holiday-themed events or religious services specific to the holiday season. Religious organizations and volunteers may visit to offer spiritual support, provide religious texts, or lead special holiday prayers and services. Participating in these events can help incarcerated people feel part of something larger than themselves.
Outside volunteers and charitable organizations often play a significant role in bringing holiday spirit to Incarcerated people. Some programs involve donating gifts to inmates’ children through gift drives, helping them stay connected as parents despite their incarceration. Religious groups, non-profits, or local communities might also send cards or small care packages to incarcerated people.
Some jails may allow for special visiting hours during the holiday season, aimed at helping inmates and their families maintain connections. Logistical and security challenges may limit the extent of these programs.
Despite these efforts, the limitations on how incarcerated people can celebrate are significant. There are no gift exchanges in the traditional sense, and many of the familiar aspects of holiday celebrations are absent.
“The resulting disruption of traditions for the incarcerated individual can increase feelings of loss and sadness, not only for the inmate but also for the family of the inmate especially if children are involved,” Dr. Lewis said.
Communication with Loved Ones
For many people, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. While this isn’t possible for incarcerated people, maintaining communication with family and friends is still important. It can help alleviate the feelings of isolation and disconnection that are intensified during this time.
Incarcerated people may be able to communicate with loved ones during the holiday season through:
- Short phone calls or video visits
- In-person visits during allotted times
- Sending and receiving mail
Letters and cards play a significant role in keeping incarcerated people connected with the outside world and can be even more helpful during the holiday season.
To send a letter to an incarcerated person, you need to know the correct mailing address for the facility where the person is and their name and identification number. These details typically can be found on the jail website. If you want your mail to arrive during the holidays, you’ll want to send it early because processing takes time. You also should check with the jail to see what’s allowed before mailing items or attempting calls or visits. Many times this information can also be found on the jail’s website.
Holidays in Jail
Spending the holidays in jail can be emotionally taxing on incarcerated people and their loved ones. It’s certainly not the same as spending time together. Despite the challenges, jail officials, volunteers, and the incarcerated people themselves often take small steps to make the holidays more tolerable or to at least recognize the season.
