Missouri Department of Corrections – http://doc.mo.gov/
Missouri 211 state resources – https://mo211.myresourcedirectory.com/
The Heart of the Prison Family
Missouri Department of Corrections – http://doc.mo.gov/
Missouri 211 state resources – https://mo211.myresourcedirectory.com/
I have a son with schizophrenia in a missouri prison. He’s been in solatary since October of last year. he gets out of his cell one hour a day. He is very very sick, he doesn’t know who anyone is and is caught in his own world. He’s not able t call or write me. They say he’s there for his own safety but the affect is the same. Alone, in a room everyday will make a sane man crazy, I need to get him out of that situation before there is nothing left of him, if it’s not already too late.
Thank you for reaching out and sharing what you’re going through. No parent should have to witness their child suffer like this; it’s incredibly painful, and I want you to know you’re not alone in this.
Solitary confinement can be especially devastating for individuals with serious mental illness like schizophrenia. Sadly, it’s a reality, even when it’s described as being “for their safety.” What your son is experiencing is not only harmful—it may also be a violation of his rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.
Here are a few steps and resources that may help:
1. Legal and Advocacy Support
Disability Rights Missouri
Website: http://www.disabilityrightsmissouri.org
Phone: 573-298-3135
They provide legal advocacy for people with disabilities, including those in prison. They may be able to help you advocate for better treatment for your son or assist in filing a formal complaint.
ACLU of Missouri
Website: http://www.aclu-mo.org
While they can’t take every case, they document these situations and may be able to refer you to other legal help.
2. Mental Health and Prison Reform Organizations
Treatment Advocacy Center
Website: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org
They work to eliminate barriers to treatment for people with severe mental illness, especially in the justice system. Their guides and resources can help you understand what legal protections your son may have.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Missouri
Website: http://www.namimissouri.org
Phone: 800-374-2138
NAMI may offer family support and connect you with advocates who understand what you’re facing.
3. Additional Support
Prison Families Alliance
Website: http://www.prisonfamiliesalliance.org
Offers virtual and in-person support meetings for families affected by incarceration. You don’t have to go through this by yourself. There are others who understand and can walk alongside you.