How does prison affect a person? How did your loved one cope with coming out? Have you observed personality changes, new patterns of behavior, restlessness, a sense of loss, depression, PTSD, nighmares, fear of social situations? My personal experience coming out of prison has been an ongoing battle ever since 1999. I feel anxious. I feel betrayed. My nightmares about prison and prison pertaining scenarios leave me exhausted in the morning. I grant trust to others after unsually long periods of time. I am protective and question the motives of others from all possible angles before I even respond to the simplest of requests (very much unlike the lighthearted, naive and innocent person I used to be).
What are your observations from loved ones or personal experience? Would love to compare notes. Peace.

My Son just got out after seven and a half years. The last four, he was in AD SEG. It is really tough on him. When he goes out by him self, he said it feels weird. He feels everyone is starring at him.We talk about it. I suppose that is the best way to get over it. We live in a small town,so everyone stares anyway.I tell him people stare, because he is so good looking. I guess being in a cell by yourself 23 seven, and then let out to do what you want to do, would be kind of freaky. Sometimes when he is just standing in one place, he catches himself with his hands behind his back.My Son was still a boy when he went to prison, now he is a man. All He got in prison was his GED, the rest of the time he was fighting for his life! I think my Son is coping real well for what he has been though, He has a stronge mind, and heart.He survived prison, He will survive the outside world, with all his family support.We all did time, and my Son knows this. He does not want that again.Never give up, and stay stronge.

Have you read the research I did and posted in this forum on PTSD and the effects of incarceration? I have seen this as an unfortunate outcome from many former inmates that I know :(
I am sorry that you are continuing to have nightmares as well as other PTSD symptoms. Have you considered treatment of any kind?

Hi Bella and Evader

Thank you for the responses.

Evader, I feel your son's adjustment trial. The first month I came out I felt that way too and I don't live in small town. I thought I had a sign on my head. I guess it takes a long time to readjust and calibrate oneself. I am strong in heart and mind, just like your son and along the way we will both survive.

Bella, no I didn't see your paper on effects of incarceration. I will look for it though and read it. Thanks for letting me know. And the suggestion of therapy, a good one. I have been through some sessions that have been helpful yet not the cure.
Thanks again.
Peace