How Suicide Prevention Works in Prison - Rhineland-Palatinate’s prisons cut young inmate suicides to near zero in five years
Prisons in Rhineland-Palatinate have strengthened measures to prevent suicides among young inmates. Over the past five years, only one such case was recorded in the state, with the latest occurring in 2024. Authorities focus on early intervention, particularly during high-risk periods like sentencing or the start of a prison term.
New detainees face the greatest risk of suicide, prompting extra vigilance from staff. Upon arrival, each inmate receives a multilingual flyer outlining suicide prevention support. Prison employees also undergo regular training to spot and respond to signs of psychological distress.
The system’s focus on early detection and professional support has kept suicide rates low. With dedicated training for staff and clear referral pathways, authorities aim to maintain safety for vulnerable inmates. The state continues to monitor and adjust its approach based on ongoing assessments.
