If someone you love is incarcerated, you may want to visit them. Prison can be lonely and isolating, which is why regular visits are the best way to support an inmate while they serve their time. After doing an inmate search to find your loved one, it's time to start planning your visit. You may feel anxious and afraid–this is perfectly normal. Visiting your friend or family member for the first time can stir up many emotions, but if you prepare yourself adequately, you can make the most of your visit and leave feeling better about the situation.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Reaching out and connecting with your loved one during their incarceration helps them feel less alone in a frightening and isolating experience. By making the most of each visit, you can maintain a healthy, satisfying relationship with your loved one and support them as they work towards becoming better.
Plan Ahead
When planning to visit a prisoner, the first step is to call ahead, schedule the visit, and inquire about the designated prison's specific rules. You should know the visiting hours, the required attire, and be mindful of any objects you can't bring into the prison. You should look at the inmate list for the institution to ensure you have the correct information. If you don't see the inmate you plan to visit on the list, you may need to conduct an inmate search. You should also be aware that facilities may have varying schedules and rules for different types of prisoners, whether they are general population convicts, in protective custody, or in extreme security.
What you wear and bring to your visit matters, too. Depending on the institution, you may not be able to wear skin-tight underwear, gang apparel, or anything else that presents a security risk. You should not bring sensitive items such as weapons, narcotics, or electronics with you. Check with the designated establishment for additional rules.
Bring A Form Of Identification
Remember to bring a valid form of identification issued by the government, such as a driver's license or passport. Another form of identity, such as a birth certificate or proof of address, may also be requested. Proper identification is your ticket to getting into the building. If you're unsure what institution your loved one is being held at, consider conducting an inmate search.
Prepare Yourself To Be Searched
Be aware that you will likely be searched before being granted access to the facility. Prison staff is required to do a thorough search of both your belongings and your body to ensure you aren't bringing any restricted items with you. Be cooperative and kind to ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Stay Positive
When you visit a prisoner you love, it may be a very emotional experience. This is a time to reconcile complicated feelings and help both you and your loved one move toward healing. Try to keep a cheerful attitude and steer clear of any uncomfortable subjects unless the inmate has something they need to get off of their chest. Visits allow prisoners to have a good time and feel loved and cared about. Avoid being judgemental or angry.
Be Encouraging
It's normal for inmates to feel trapped and hopeless in their situation, so you must be as encouraging and uplifting as possible. Express your confidence in your loved one's potential to change. Inspire them to make plans for their freedom and strive toward achieving those plans. Reassure them that they are not alone and that you will be there for them every step of the way to support them.
Actively Listen
Do your best to make the inmate feel heard and valued. They should have the space to talk freely and express their emotions without you interrupting them. Avoid giving advice or invalidating their feelings–they are going through a confusing and challenging time. Your incarcerated loved one will feel more heard and respected if you show empathy and listen to them attentively.
Bring Gifts
Bringing an inmate a gift is a great way to show them that you care. You should research the prison's rules to ensure that the gift you decide to bring is appropriate. Books are usually a safe bet, giving inmates something to dive into in their spare time. These could be fun fiction books or interesting educational books. Books are an excellent way for prisoners to connect with the outside world and stay positive.
Be Mindful Of The Time
It can be easy to lose track of time during your visit. After all, you're catching up with someone you don't get to see often. However, pay attention to the time to make the most of your visit. Remember that there are restrictions on visiting hours. You might end up staying longer than you thought you would or even have your time cut short if the inmate list has many visitors in one day. Be cooperative with security personnel, and remember you can come back.
There Is Hope
When someone you love is incarcerated, you may feel uncertain about the future of your relationship. Remember that paying regular visits can help both you and the prisoner move towards hope, healing, and change. If you want to reconnect with someone in prison, an inmate search is a great resource to help locate your friend or family member. With time and connection, you can rebuild your relationship and help your loved one make important changes.
