Life after Exoneration: Common Struggles the Wrongly Convicted Face & How to Cope

An exoneration is a heartwarming experience for anyone who was wrongfully convicted. However, for many, the new taste of freedom can be bitter-sweet. Despite the profound happiness that comes with the new status, exonerees face a new set of challenges that mostly border on how to reintegrate into the society. 

More often than not, the scars from the experience in prison take a toll on their mental health, and trying to heal while still finding their feet can prove too much. Here, we explore some of the common struggles the wrongly convicted face after exoneration and share some coping strategies. 

Finding a Place to Live

When someone gets out of prison, one of the first things they need is a place to live. This can be very hard because their family might have moved and they may not have enough money to rent a place. In some cases, they may experience subtle discrimination, even though they’ve been exonerated. Such experiences can trigger a new wave of mental breakdown if not handled properly. 

To cope with this, exonerated people can look for organizations that help with housing. Some charities and non-profits offer temporary housing until they can find a permanent place. It’s also important to connect with family and friends who might be able to offer support. Having a safe place to live is a big step towards starting over.

Getting a Job

Finding a job after being exonerated is another big challenge. Many employers hesitate to hire someone with a prison record, even if they are found innocent. This makes it hard for exonerated people to earn money and support themselves.

To overcome this, they can seek help from job training programs and employment services specifically designed for people in their situation. These programs can teach new skills and help with job applications. Networking with others who have been through similar experiences can also lead to job opportunities. It’s important to stay positive and keep trying, even when it feels difficult.

Rebuilding Relationships

Being in prison can damage relationships with family and friends. Both parties can feel hurt and betrayed as the entire trial and conviction process often takes a toll. Even after exoneration, rebuilding relationships can take some time, and some may be too broken to repair.. When exonerees find it hard to come back to the life they once lived, they are wont to make bad decisions. 

To cope with this, exonerated individuals can seek counseling or therapy to help process their feelings and learn how to communicate better. Furthermore, family therapy can help everyone understand each other’s feelings and work together to heal. Rebuilding relationships takes time and patience, but it’s possible with effort and understanding.

Dealing with Mental Health Issues

Life in prison can be very stressful and scary. Many people who are wrongly convicted suffer from mental health problems like depression, anxiety, or PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). These issues don’t just go away when they are released. 

It’s important for exonerated people to get mental health support. With therapy, counseling, and sometimes medication, many of the mental health issues exonerees face can be managed. Also, they can consider joining support groups where they can talk to others who understand what they’ve been through. 

Financial Difficulties

Without a job and with the costs of finding a new place to live, money can be a big problem for those who have been exonerated. They might have legal fees to pay and could be behind on bills or debts from their time in prison. While some states offer compensation to people who have been wrongly convicted, the process often takes time and isn’t available everywhere. 

To cope with financial challenges, exonerated individuals can seek financial advice from professionals who can help them create a budget and manage their money wisely. They may also contact charities and community organizations that might be able to offer some financial assistance. In cases where they’re awaiting compensation, their may be lenders willing to loan them enough money to cover their personal expenses, and they’ll pack back after securing the settlement. 

Adjusting to Changes in Society

The world outside prison changes quickly. Technology, laws, and even social norms can be very different from when they first went to prison. Adjusting to these changes can be overwhelming for exonerees. And the longer the time spent in prison, the more difficult it’ll be to adjust to the world outside after regaining their freedom. 

To cope with this, they can take classes or workshops that teach them about new technologies and how to use them. It’s also helpful to stay connected with a community that offers support and guidance. Learning new skills and staying patient with themselves during this adjustment period is key to overcoming this challenge.

Building a New Identity

After being wrongly convicted, people often feel like they’ve lost a part of who they are. They might struggle with their identity and how they see themselves. In such instances, it’s important for them to find ways to build a new sense of self.

Getting involved in activities they enjoy or are passionate about can help. They may consider volunteering, joining clubs, or participating in community events as these can make them feel more connected and valued. Ultimately, the journey ahead will involve finding new paths and creating a life that feels meaningful.

Conclusion

Life after exoneration can be filled with challenges. However, the opportunities for a fresh start should be too good to pass on. By following the coping strategies shared above, exonerees can equip themselves with the right coping mechanisms for the journey ahead. Remember, it takes time, patience, and a lot of courage to reintegrate into society after a wrongful conviction. , But with the right help, they can find joy and peace again.

 

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Contact us at High Rise Financial today to apply for a lawsuit loan while your wrongful conviction case is ongoing. Our trusted team can explain your available settlement loan options to you and guide you through the application process. Call us at (866) 407-6404 today to apply.