Crisis behind bars: How prisons want to prevent suicides

Crisis behind bars: How prisons want to prevent suicides

In Germany's prisons, prisoners struggle not only with isolation and the loss of their freedom, but also with serious emotional stress. Frequent fears of violence, the feeling of loss of control and the shame about the crimes they have committed place a heavy burden on those incarcerated. This problem is taken seriously by the Federal Working Group on Suicide Prevention (BAG), which recorded a total of 1,794 suicides by prisoners in Germany between 2000 and 2023, including 1,736 men and 58 women. On average, this means 72 suicides per year, with extreme fluctuations: While 117 suicides were registered in 2000, there were only 43 in 2019.

The situation is similarly alarming in Baden-Württemberg. In the last ten years, 89 men between the ages of 17 and 79 have committed suicide here. The most common method is strangulation, which highlights the often inadequate supervision options in prisons. The highest rate was recorded in 2016, 2021 and 2022, each with 12 suicides. In contrast, the lowest numbers occurred in 2018 and 2020, where only five suicides were documented each.

Risk factors in the prison system

The risk of suicide is particularly high for certain groups of prisoners. These include prisoners on remand, young and older prisoners as well as those with long prison sentences or mental illnesses. There is an increased risk, particularly in the first few days after incarceration. According to BAG surveys, the risk of suicide in pre-trial detention is higher than in prison.

In order to identify prisoners at risk at an early stage, a screening process was introduced at the end of 2022. This screening is carried out immediately after the prisoner's arrival as part of an initial interview. It is a step in the right direction to provide vulnerable prisoners with the support they need. Prison officers have a crucial duty of protection and care and must actively participate in the prevention of suicide.

Infrastructure and prevention measures

In order to improve the situation, some prisons already have camera-monitored cells for suicidal prisoners. In addition, current concepts for the new prison in Rottweil show that suicide prevention approaches are already being integrated into the planning and construction phase. These include special detention rooms that are intended to create a positive atmosphere for the treatment of inmates and at the same time enable the necessary control by staff.

By 2024, 332 suicide attempts have already been documented in Baden-Württemberg. The highest number was in 2017 with 43 attempts, while only 17 were documented in 2020. Contrary to popular belief, studies show that many prisoners suffer from psychiatric illnesses, which are considered a risk factor for suicidal behavior. Support systems within the prison, such as experienced prisoners supporting at-risk prisoners, represent another approach to preventing and improving mental health in prison.

The challenges of suicide prevention in the prison system are complex and require comprehensive measures and strategies. Experts and organizations such as the BAG are striving to improve the living conditions of prisoners and to sustainably reduce the risk of suicidal behavior.

In summary, the need for effectively implemented suicide prevention concepts in German prisons is undisputed. The aim is to use appropriate measures to protect the lives and mental health of prisoners and to sustainably reduce suicide rates.

For more information, read Regenbogen.de, SpringerLink and other in-depth studies on this topic.