Passing the Time in Jail - What to do to Avoid Going Crazy

Passing the Time in Jail - What to do to Avoid Going Crazy

The biggest issue when you’re incarcerated is boredom. On the outside you can go visit friends, go to work, take up a hobby, watch what you want on television or anything else you want to avoid dullness. Jail is much more limiting, but here are some suggestions for getting through it: Exercise – Jail food is known for causing weight gain. There are lots of carbs, little if any fresh foods and plenty of sitting around in the cell after eating. Develop a work out routine and stick to it. It takes approximately 2,000 steps to walk a mile. Commit to walking two miles a day, seven days a week. Strength training, like pushups, is also important. Seven benefits of regular exercise. Writing – Writing letters is a huge past-time activity in jail, but why stop there? Have you ever thought about writing a book or a film screenplay? Now is a good time to do it, when you have nothing but time on your hands. Whether you make up a story, write about being in jail or pen poetry with the hope of publication, writing is a productive way to pass the time. Video: Stephen King on writing scary stories and more Related:  Prisoners write letters to their former selves. Plan for release – You are going to be released and will likely be starting over in life. Plan now what that looks like for you. Where will you apply for jobs? Where will you apply for jobs? If you have substance abuse issues, what will you do for aftercare to stay sober? Plan and write down how you are going to make it work this time. Continue to fine-tune as it gets closer to being a reality. Create a Schedule – Develop a routine where you do certain things each day at a certain time. That will prepare you for a job in the future and also help you stick to your goals. Final thoughts:  Boredom is also a major factor in depression. Get up each morning and plan your day as if you aren’t in jail. This will help you grow as a person and prepare you better for the outside.