5 Things to Know Before Entering Prison
1) Get comfortable being uncomfortable-
This was the first piece of advice that was given to me when I was facing my incarceration and it held true. Being in prison is daily situations of being uncomfortable, using the restroom in a very public way, showering and being exposed to other women. You have to be able to adjust your mind into becoming comfortable. Its not easy, but being ready for what’s coming and then reminding yourself while in the situation that everyone around you is going through the same thing as you makes it better.
2) Nothing stays the same-
Prison especially in Florida Women’s prison is always changing. Rules and way of life that could be one way for years can change. Being able to adapt to new rules, new officers, new people, new dorms and even new compounds is imperative. Being stuck in the way something was will never help you going forward. Finding the good in your new situation is the only way to adapt.
3) Not everything is about you.
NOW this is a big one and this applies outside of prison as well. But this was a life lesson I learned on the inside. First of all it’s important to remember that there is no victimless crime, taking accountability for what you do to go to prison is important. It makes your time on the inside a lot easier. No matter what you did someone was affected by your choices. Whether it was your victim of your crime, or your family and friends. This is key to remember. Now back to not everything is about you. You will come across many situations that you will want to take personal. Someone cuts in front of you for the sink, the microwave( only Gadsden has microwaves in the dorm) or maybe even walking out the door. You might think that this is a personal attack on you, that this person has a problem with you specifically. But it’s important to remember that everyone is thinking for themselves and about themselves. Take a deep breath when you encounter a situation like this and remember that people are not doing anything TO you, they are simply going about their own day. They are just as stressed and overwhelmed as you are. And not everyone is going to be as mindful and respectful of you as you are to them.
4) Get used to having no privacy-
now this might sound a lot like number one on the list, but it’s a little different. There are a lot of things that are uncomfortable about prison, a lot that can change that you wouldn’t expect to. But no privacy is a constant that you have to be prepared to deal with. You want to go see your family at visitation? You’re going to get strip searched, and you will have to spread your cheeks and cough, HARD. You have an outside medical trip? You’re going to have to strip and spread again. All your ingoing and outgoing mail is going to be read. Your phone calls are listened to. Nothing of yours is private (except legal mail).
5) You do have rights-
and it’s super important to know your inmate rights. Medical care: Inmates have the right to receive necessary medical treatment, including mental health care, and can file grievances if they believe their medical needs are not being met adequately. Protection from abuse: Inmates are protected from excessive force and assault by other inmates, and staff must take reasonable steps to prevent such incidents. Religious practice: Inmates have the right to practice their religion and access religious services. Grievance process: Inmates can file grievances to address complaints about prison conditions, staff conduct, or violations of their rights. Access to legal services: Inmates have the right to access legal assistance to challenge prison conditions or potential violations of their rights. Disability accommodations: Inmates with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations to meet their needs. Education and rehabilitation programs: Florida prisons are required to provide opportunities for inmates to participate in educational and vocational training programs.