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Closing Advice

Interview with Tina

JM: What else would you want a friend or family member to know if they have a loved one going to this jail?
Tina: This is a tough question, because it is what it is. I could traumatize or glorify the time I spent. I would like to try to put family members minds at ease, but everyone is different. For me it was how I perceived things. I can say from experience that they can survive it. Ask them if they prefer visits or not, for some it was extremely depressing, for some it kept them going. Depending on their sentence, this is only temporary, say that over and over. Getting mail is especially exciting!! Pictures, pictures of loved ones, life on the outside, and pictures of the "loved one"--normal life situations. When some inmates saw pictures of me they didn't recognize me. I had to remind them that on the outside I don't go without make-up, my hair isn't always in a bun or braids, but be aware of jail mail restrictions. Also, depending on the individual and jail restrictions, books, puzzle books, but again. . . please be aware of jail restrictions. It's frustrating to know you got mail and it was rejected. Try not to be too critical or demeaning, don't kick 'em when they're down. Try to be encouraging and proactive. Give them ideas to occupy their time and mind, ask them to make lists if they're inclined, i.e., goals when they get out, keep a journal, etc. Keep them aware of everything on the outside that could be important. They're incarcerated, not incapacitated. Gosh, I could go on and on . . .

JM: If somebody knows they will be serving time in this jail what is your advice to them?
Tina: Don't be mouthy, don't whine, be strong. Just like any situation, feel out the people you're surrounded by before you voice opinions. Be nice, don't feel the need to appear tough, and by no means "strong arm", I believe that's in the handbook. Read the handbook, it's the rules and it passes time. Become knowledgeable, so that you never overstep your bounds or go "out of area". Be someone people want to be around, nobody wants to be around a high maintenance person. Everyone has a story, life, and their own problems outside of jail.

JM: Please list any other jail or rehab facilities you have been to.
Tina: York County Prison.