| Abstract |
"In Homeward, Bruce Western (2018) describes the shock, panic, and bewilderment of people recently released from prison. From the immediate joy of leaving confinement and returning to family and friends, people released from prison soon encounter stress, isolation, depression, and anxiety. Reintegrating is difficult under the best of circumstances, but it is made all the more difficult by a criminal record and poor health. For many people returning from prison, securing adequate medical care is a relief and even an opportunity. In his interviews, Western describes A.J., who served a two-year sentence, much of it spent in solitary confinement, and continued to suffer from severe anxiety and isolation. But seven weeks from release, AJ was keen to share good news: "I'm on my meds now. I got a doctor. I can go out and be around people" (p. 56). Another person Western interviewed, Carla, received extensive counseling and medical treatment while in prison, including for Hepatitis C, a heart problem, and back pain. But months after release her chronic conditions and disability grew worse, preventing her from working, diminishing her enthusiasm, and accelerating her slide into depression (p. 58-59)"-- Provided by publisher. |
