
Prison can be a lonely place for your loved one. It is often filled with a lot of emotional and mental distress due to the bad decisions one has made. Thinking negatively is common in prison, your loved one needs your help.
If you have a loved one in prison, thoughtful and supportive questions can help strengthen your bond and provide them with emotional comfort. Here are some questions to consider asking:
About Their Well-being
- How are you feeling today, both physically and emotionally?
- Are you eating well and staying healthy?
- Do you feel safe where you are?
- Is there anything specific you need or want me to send (e.g., books, letters, or commissary funds)?
About Their Daily Life
- What does a typical day look like for you right now?
- Have you made any friends or found support among others there?
- Are you participating in any programs, classes, or activities?
- What has been the most challenging part of your day-to-day routine?
Offering Support
- What can I do to make things easier for you?
- Do you need help with anything outside, like legal matters, family updates, or financial concerns?
- Are there specific topics you’d like to talk about when we chat?
- How can I encourage or motivate you during this time?
Fostering Connection
- What are you thinking about or reflecting on the most these days?
- Do you have any goals or plans for the future that I can support you with?
- Is there anything you’d like to share about what you’ve been learning or experiencing?
- Are there any shared memories you want to revisit or things you’d like me to tell you about life outside?
For Encouragement
- What keeps you hopeful or motivated during tough days?
- Do you want to talk about what you’re looking forward to once you’re out?
- Is there a book, song, or movie I can enjoy and share my thoughts about with you?
- What’s something small or simple that brings you comfort right now?
Remember to always be patient and compassionate in your conversations. Open-ended questions allow them to share as much as they’re comfortable with, and expressing your love and support is key.