Just so you know (AKA Knowledge is Power)

How to Deal with Being in Prison

1.Do not cry, show fear, or a vulnerability publicly. Doing so will quickly make you a target for other prisoners.
2.Learn to play spades, chess, or hoops as it makes the time go by faster.
3.Get a prison job which will keep you occupied as the days pass by.
4.Read a lot. They have a library there so use it. Catch up on your reading. 5.Consider taking correspondence courses and continuing your education.
6.Consider writing as well. Letters to friends and family, fictional short-stories, and poetry can make time pass a bit faster.
7.Brace yourself for the social dynamics of prison. There are certain ways to behave towards others if you want to get by:

a.Do not become a 'punk' (girlfriend). While becoming a punk might give you some fleeting, temporary protection from other inmates, you will be a virtual slave to one. Punks are used and abused. They are traded away in card games and sold for cigarettes. It is not a path to long term survival in prison.
b.Do not snitch. If you see something illegal or violent, walk away and do not divulge any information if questioned later. Being known as a snitch will make bad things happen to you. (Of course, you have to decide whether your fellow inmates or the authorities are more dangerous. If you're questioned and lie to the jailkeepers, you can get in serious legal trouble.)
c.Stick up for yourself or you will be turned into a punk. It's better to get into a fight and lose than to be seen cowering or placating. Your reputation is more important than your desire to avoid pain, so guard it with your life. Ultimately you should avoid any confrontation if you can, but if you can't avoid one, react quickly and with aggression. So swing first. If you happen to get beat down never call for the correctional officers--I repeat, never. Doing so will get you labeled a punk.
d.Keep to yourself, keep your mouth shut and don't tell anyone about your personal life, family, or criminal history--keep them wondering, but don't overdo it. Do not discuss politics or personal feelings about anyone. In other words, don't put your business out on the street. At the same time, don't get involved in other inmate's business.
e.Become religious. Inmates tend to treat those always carrying a Holy Book and praying with more respect than others. In addition, many people find a church and belief in a higher power protective and supporting.

8.Recognize that nights are the worst. You will miss your family, and freedom. You will probably cry, so stifle it into your pillow so no one will hear.