October 2026 Correctional Oasis Summary
The October 2026 issue of Correctional Oasis examines the ways correctional culture shapes how staff cope with stress, trauma, and the emotional demands of the profession. It also introduces Stephanie Rawlings as only the second Executive Director of Desert Waters, with a renewed focus on putting staff wellness at the center of organizational change.
This month’s issue takes a closer look at gallows humor—why it develops, how it can provide relief and connection, and when it crosses the line from coping into contempt or emotional avoidance. It also shares a correctional officer’s personal experience with suicidal thoughts and the importance of reaching out for support, and explains why agency leadership should complete From Corrections Fatigue to Fulfillment (CF2F) before rolling the program out to frontline staff.
Throughout the issue, the message is that resilience does not require emotional numbness. Healthy correctional cultures can make room for humor and toughness while also allowing staff to acknowledge difficult experiences, seek support, and remain connected to their humanity.