Workshop focused on stress management in serving a prison sentence

A two-hour workshop focused on the issue of stress management, led by psychologists from the IPčko association, took place at the Košice correctional facility. The event was intended for inmates serving prison sentences, and its main goal was to introduce participants to the possibilities of professional psychological help, expand their knowledge about the mechanisms of stress, and present effective coping strategies. The workshop was held on July 14, 2026.

In the introductory part, the psychologists presented the activities of the IPčko association, its mission, and the range of services provided. They familiarized the participants with situations in which it is appropriate to seek professional psychological help, as well as with available ways to contact and utilize the provided services.

The following section was devoted to the issue of stress from a psychological perspective. Participants gained information about the most common stressors, the body's physiological reactions to stressful situations, and the mental and physical manifestations of stress. Theoretical knowledge was supplemented by practical examples from everyday life, which contributed to a better understanding of the subject and encouraged active discussion.

The final part of the workshop consisted of an interactive activity called “The Stress Cauldron”, through which the participants had the opportunity to identify factors that negatively affect their mental well-being, as well as the resources that help them restore internal balance, strengthen psychological resilience, and more effectively cope with difficult life situations. The activity promoted self-reflection, open communication, and the sharing of experiences.

Throughout the workshop, the inmates showed significant interest in the presented topics. They actively engaged in the discussion, shared their experiences and opinions, and asked many questions, to which the psychologists provided professional, objective, and understandable answers. The positive atmosphere and high level of interaction confirmed the importance of preventive and educational activities focused on supporting mental health. Similar events contribute significantly to the development of psychological resilience, self-knowledge, and the acquisition of effective coping strategies for stressful situations, thereby supporting the resocialization process of the inmates.