This research study began in 2021, spearheaded by Dr. Racheal Nolan, a professor at the University School of Medicine specializing in grief and public health. 

We developed a focus group of formerly incarcerated people and their support systems to create a qualitative and quantitative study.

This study is a national study that will help this population of people identify with their trauma and their triggers while developing healthy coping mechanisms. 

We have utilized the data to create tools to reduce recidivism. Our ultimate goal is to connect with universities and colleges across the country to adopt our research. As well as partner with other like-minded organizations to adopt our PICS Hub concepts to help people become mentally healthy and reclaim the lives of our loved ones. 

University Of Cincinnati School Of Medicine

Opportunities People’s Justice Leaders working as the research arm of SOAR 4031.

SOAR 4031 Foundation

WOMEN WHO NEVER GIVE UP

Dr. Racheal Nolan PhD

Chazidy Bowman, PICS Subject Expert

Michelle Siddiqui, OMS-1

Nicole Wiesen MSW, PHd

Pojah Gohil MPH

It’s clear that mass incarceration has led to a public health crisis, with many individuals experiencing trauma well before their first encounter with law enforcement. Once in the system, this trauma compounds, resulting in a condition known as Post-Incarceration Syndrome (PICS). With approximately 4 million Americans currently or formerly incarcerated, it’s evident that both those directly impacted and their support systems suffer from this debilitating condition on a daily basis.

Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, our organization has developed a comprehensive program designed to support individuals and their support systems starting one year prior to release and continuing up to one year after release. Our goal is to address the unique challenges associated with PICS, a disorder not yet formally recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) and DSM5. However, PTSD is listed as a symptom.

Through our program, we aim to provide holistic support that addresses the mental health, social, and practical needs of individuals impacted by incarceration and their families. This includes equipping mental health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively support individuals with PICS, while also advocating for greater recognition and understanding of this condition within the broader healthcare community. By taking proactive steps to address PICS, we hope to mitigate its impact and foster healing and resilience among those affected by the trauma of incarceration.

Increase Awareness and Understanding:

• Objective: To raise awareness and enhance understanding of Post-Incarceration Syndrome (PICS) among stakeholders, including formerly incarcerated individuals, their families, community organizations, policymakers, and healthcare professionals.

Provide Comprehensive Support Services:

• Objective: To develop and implement comprehensive support services tailored to the needs of formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, including mental health support, education, job training, housing assistance, and social services.

Facilitate Successful Reintegration:

• Objective: To support successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society by addressing the underlying challenges and barriers they face, promoting personal growth, and fostering positive relationships with family, community, and society.

Reduce Recidivism Rates:

• Objective: To reduce recidivism rates among justice-involved individuals by providing access to resources, support, and opportunities for personal and professional development that address the root causes of criminal behavior and promote positive life outcomes.

Promote Family Stability and Well-being:

• Objective: To strengthen family stability and well-being by providing education, support, and resources to families of incarcerated individuals, helping them navigate the challenges of the reentry process and maintain healthy relationships. Within the critical first 90 days of reintegration upon returning home.

Conduct Research and Evaluation:

• Objective: To conduct research on Post-Incarceration Syndrome (PICS) to further understand its prevalence, risk factors, impacts, and effective interventions, and to evaluate the outcomes and effectiveness of support programs and interventions implemented as part of the project.

Advocate for Policy Changes:

• Objective: To advocate for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels that promote the rights, well-being, and successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals, including reforms related to criminal justice, mental health, housing, employment, and social services.

Build Partnerships and Collaboration:

• Objective: To build partnerships and collaboration among universities, community organizations, government agencies, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to leverage resources, expertise, and networks in support of the project’s goals and objectives.

These objectives provide clear targets for the project and guide efforts to address the complex challenges associated with Post-Incarceration Syndrome (PICS) and support individuals and families affected by incarceration.

Scope:

The scope of this project encompasses comprehensive support and resources for individuals affected by Post-Incarceration Syndrome (PICS) and their families. It includes various interventions and programs aimed at addressing the mental health, social, and practical needs of formerly incarcerated individuals during their reintegration into society. Additionally, the project focuses on providing education, support, and tools to families to help them navigate the challenges associated with supporting a loved one transitioning from incarceration. The project’s scope also involves research efforts to further understand PICS and its impact, as well as advocacy initiatives to raise awareness and promote policy changes to better support affected individuals.

Target Market:

The target market for this project includes:

Formerly Incarcerated Individuals: Individuals who have been released from incarceration and are experiencing challenges related to reintegration, mental health, and adjusting to life outside of prison.

Families of Incarcerated Individuals: Family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings, who are supporting a loved one transitioning from incarceration and may be experiencing their own challenges and stressors.

Community Organizations: Nonprofit organizations, community-based groups, and advocacy organizations working in the fields of criminal justice reform, reentry services, mental health support, and advocacy for individuals affected by incarceration.

Government Agencies: Departments of Corrections, probation/parole agencies, mental health agencies, and public health departments that are responsible for providing services and support to justice-involved individuals.

Healthcare and Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists, counselors, social workers, and healthcare professionals involved in providing mental health services and support to individuals affected by PICS.

Educational Institutions: Universities, colleges, and academic institutions interested in conducting research on PICS, as well as providing education and training opportunities for students and professionals in relevant fields.

Policy Makers and Legislators: Local, state, and federal policymakers interested in addressing issues related to criminal justice reform, mental health services, and reentry support for justice-involved individuals.

Overall, the project targets a diverse range of stakeholders involved in supporting individuals affected by incarceration and aims to provide tailored interventions and resources to meet their specific needs and challenges.