psychological effects of solitary confinement

Solitary confinement can significantly impact mental health, often leading to feelings of intense loneliness, anxiety, and depression. It may cause sensory deprivation, disrupting normal thinking and emotional regulation, and can lead to paranoia or hallucinations. Prolonged isolation may diminish a person's ability to trust others, impair decision-making, and result in emotional numbness or agitation. The lack of social interaction and environmental stimulation profoundly affects psychological well-being, sometimes causing long-lasting mental health issues even after release.