Psychological Distress and Resilience among Persons Deprived of Liberty in a Jail Facility of Western Visayas, Philippines

Persons Deprived of Liberty’s (PDL) psychological health is a serious issue because of the various stressors they encounter in the jail facility, yet it is not adequately examined in many local contexts. This study aims to assess the levels and relationship between psychological distress and resilience among PDLs in one of the jails in Western Visayas, Philippines, and to examine whether fostering resilience can help reduce psychological challenges in correctional settings. This study utilized a descriptive-correlational method to assess the levels of psychological distress and resilience among 100 PDLs in a jail facility in Western Visayas. Results show that PDLs experienced mild psychological disorders and demonstrated normal levels of resilience. However, no statistically significant relationship was found between the two. These findings show the complex and unique nature of psychological functioning within the jail environment and emphasize the importance of understanding how PDLs cope and adapt in such an environment. The study contributes valuable insights about the psychological needs of PDLs and supports the call for a more comprehensive approach to mental health care and the creation of programs within jail facilities, particularly in Western Visayas. Policy and rehabilitation program makers and mental health professionals may use this study to guide the development of targeted therapeutic interventions and psycho-educational efforts that strengthen protective factors and psychosocial support within jail populations.