A painful trial befalls a Muslim family when one of its members is imprisoned simply for holding a belief or opinion that does not align with the ruling regime.
Some believe that the experience of imprisonment inevitably produces heroes who will build the future and achieve glory. However, the truth is quite the opposite. Only a few emerge better than they entered, and that is only if they were granted relatively better conditions in detention that allowed them some intellectual freedom behind bars. Even when such conditions exist, they are rare and temporary. This was the case in the 1990s when the Islamic movement spread in universities and professional syndicates, turning prisons into training camps. Young men would leave their cells after several months, having memorized the Quran and gained significant life and preaching experience.
At the same time, there were places like Syria, where prisons were merciless. Entering them meant one was lost regardless—those who came out either lost their minds or suffered psychological disorders that would take years to heal, if they made it out at all. Saydnaya is a case in point.
Psychological Changes in Former Prisoners After Release
By listening to the families of former prisoners, we found that they face significant psychological challenges that hinder their reintegration into society. The years of imprisonment changed their nature—even those who were once the most cheerful, affectionate, and hopeful. Some developed deep-seated fear of people, lost trust in others, and avoided social interactions. They dismissed all opinions, even those they previously held and suffered for. Many preferred isolation over mingling with society.
Others, who were once generous and chivalrous, emerged from prison gripped by fear of poverty. They became miserly, worrying about financial survival, rationing food, counting loaves of bread to see how many days they would last, and even keeping spoiled leftovers in case of extreme need. Many imposed prison-like regulations on their families—fixed sleeping hours, measured portions of food—replicating the controlled life they endured behind bars.
One of the most significant psychological impacts of imprisonment is extreme fear—of phone calls, doorbells, loud voices, or even simple discussions. Their personalities seem entirely transformed; the courageous and thoughtful individuals they once were become withdrawn and apprehensive. The situation worsens if they endured psychological or physical torture, further complicating their mental state.
How to Reintegrate Former Prisoners into Society
The primary responsibility for reintegrating a released prisoner falls on their family and close circle. The first step is understanding that this is a difficult phase that will pass, and that these behaviors are symptoms of their ordeal, not their true nature. They must be reassured that imprisonment was not a punishment but a test from Allah, elevating their rank.
In some cases, family efforts may not be enough, and professional psychological intervention may be necessary. Convincing the individual to seek therapy might be difficult, but with patience, emotional support, and gradual steps, recovery is possible. Some essential measures include:
1. Helping them face post-prison challenges, which may be emotional, social, or financial. On the family level, his relationship with his wife must be based on open understanding of everything he has been through. She must grasp the root of the problem and act with balance, which can be particularly difficult in the beginning. She herself has endured a harsh experience, having lost her husband’s presence, taken on double responsibilities in his absence, endured visits that the family was often unprepared for, and faced harassment that left a negative impact on her. She also expects emotional compensation upon his return, only to be surprised that he is in greater need of support than she is. She must bear with the situation, even if temporarily, as her support will have the greatest effect on him, being the closest to him and sharing in his cause and mission.
She must help restore his confidence in himself—sometimes through love, and at other times through firmness that strengthens his resolve. She should reassure him regarding sustenance, reminding him that the One who provided for them while he was behind bars will continue to provide for them now that he is free. Conversations about love, faith, and responsibility should take place, so he regains his awareness and rediscovers himself—whether through the support of those around him or with professional medical help if needed.
2. Encouraging them to take up work, preferably in a different environment from where they were before, to gradually regain a sense of security.
3. If they were students or young adults, motivating them to resume their education, even if years have passed. If their local environment remains unsafe, assisting them in relocating may be necessary to prevent repeated persecution.
4. Introducing them to inspiring stories of former detainees who overcame their suffering and contributed significantly to their nations. A notable example is the late martyr Yahya Sinwar, who endured more than two decades in prison yet later led his people to victory against a superior military force, ultimately attaining martyrdom with honor.
5. The family must remain patient and not expect a quick recovery. The extent of the abuse and humiliation they endured is unknown, and overcoming it requires time and resilience.
6. Society as a whole must mobilize against political imprisonment and unjust detentions. The real solution lies not just in rehabilitating individuals but in restoring the dignity of the entire nation by freeing its people. Heroes do not belong in prison; they belong at the forefront, leading their communities with honor and strength.
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