The mental health programs at San Quentin give the incarcerated quality resources to become better people.
The CDCR’s Mental Health Services Delivery System provides programs such as Correctional Clinician Case Management System (CCCMS), according California Code of Regulations Title 15.
A particular Mental Health program made available to SQ residents reflects on the book, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” by author Viktor E. Frankl.
Frankl is a survivor of the Nazi concentration camps; he trained as a psychiatrist, he recorded every moment of his ordeal which gave him insight into the psychology of his survival.
“’Man’s Search for Meaning’ was a primary motivation in his life and not a ‘secondary rationalization’ of instinctual drives,” Frankl wrote in the book.
“(The book) allows me to freely open up to speak about myself in ways I never done before,” said Victor Manazanares, a group participant. “It’s going to help me when I get out, because I no longer allow my problems hold me back.”
The information in the book discusses the definition of Men’s Search for Meaning as exceptional. It satisfies one’s own will to significance and defines the contention amongst authors saying that they are ‘nothing but defense mechanism…’.”
The mental health clinicians offer quality life lessons groups to residents, which are all voluntary.
Another group offers Financial Literacy, which enlightens subjects such as Dave Ramsey’s “7 Steps to Financial Freedom,” and the group handout, “10 Budgeting Tips”
Financial freedom, according to Ramsey, is emergency fund savings, getting out of debt, paying off mortgages, building wealth, and offering charity.
A few of the 10 tips in the handout suggest that you should conserve your money, and do not over spend your budget.
For example, the text says one should organize one’s expenditures such as bills and receipts, utilities, and car expenses.
“Financial Literacy will help me take care of myself and invest in my kids future,” said Ronald Hughes, a Financial Literacy participant.
“It teaches me how to take my money and make smart legal investments, watching my money grow, and to live well when I retire.”
The groups do not offer Rehabilitation Activity Credits, but people still regularly attend the one-hour Monday and Wednesday sessions from 12 noon to 1 PM.
