Due to the prison environment’s disruption of normal sleep patterns—whether from the noise of other inmates, the constant threat of violence, or the strict schedule—former prisoners may develop odd sleep habits. They might stay up late or wake up extremely early, often out of habit rather than necessity. They may also find it difficult to sleep in a traditional bed or may have trouble trusting that they are safe enough to sleep soundly. Inside prison, privacy is almost nonexistent. People share cells, showers, and eating spaces under constant surveillance.
After release, many former prisoners crave personal space and may become uneasy when others enter it uninvited. Having control over their surroundings — closing a door, choosing where to sit, or deciding when to go out — can feel like a vital expression of freedom. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about reclaiming autonomy after years of being denied it.
