During the 2022 legislative session, lawmakers approved $500,000 to fund a pilot program aimed at helping IDOC staff and residents address trauma and stress. The department is now analyzing the program’s effectiveness and hopes to share results in November 2023

Correctional staff experience high levels of stress, burnout, and other mental health-related consequences. They also experience higher rates of PTSD and suicide compared to those of the general working-age population.

Additionally, we know that many of our residents experience abuse, stress, and trauma before entering prison and that many can be exposed to the same during incarceration.

Stress and trauma can impact all aspects of one's life, including relationships with family, friends, and coworkers, and various obligations and hobbies.

IDOC issued this flyer about the pilot program before it was launched.