AB143. Behind bars, beyond silence: screening mental health in female inmates using SRQ-20 and national guidelines

Abstract: Women serving time in prisons are at higher risk of health problems than the general population. Factors such as past trauma, limited access to health services, environmental stress, lack of privacy, and the same daily routine often result in mental health disorders going undetected and undertreated. Furthermore, issues such as stigma often make it difficult for female inmates to seek help for their health. This study aims to evaluate the mental health status and determine psychological needs based on national screening guidelines in female inmates at the Class IIA Malang Women’s Correctional Institution. he study’s findings were obtained using the 20-item Self-Report Questionnaire (SRQ-20) and the Indonesian Ministry of Health’s “Is Your Mental Health Okay?” checklist, with 29 female inmates as respondents. The results showed that 21 participants (53.8%) indicated they were experiencing psychological distress, and 20 participants (51.3%) were recommended for psychological counseling, indicating a significant psychological burden experienced by female inmates. The provision of inclusive health services, regular check-ups, and adequate referrals are essential for the recovery and empowerment of inmates. Correctional institutions must also strive to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health problems, especially those that commonly occur in inmates, to create a safe and supportive environment for these inmates.

Keywords: Female inmates; mental health; psychological needs; 20-item Self-Report Questionnaire (SRQ-20); Indonesia