<![CDATA[Background: Inmates are a vulnerable group prone to mental health disorders due to internal pressures such as loss of freedom, guilt, and depression, as well as external pressures such as social stigma and weakened family relationships. Preliminary data at the Class IIA Correctional Facility in Jember indicated that inmates frequently experience severe stress, anxiety, and a significant decrease in daily motivation. In this context, social support plays a vital role in maintaining their mental stability, particularly the support provided by correctional counselors (wali pemasyarakatan), who maintain close and regular interactions with them. Objective: To explore the specific forms of social support provided by correctional counselors to inmates at Class IIA Correctional Facility in Jember based on House’s social support framework. Methods: This study employed a qualitative approach using a phenomenological method. Informants consisted of one key informant (Head of the Health and Care Guidance Subsection), four main informants (correctional counselors), and three additional informants (inmates), selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews until thematic saturation was achieved, and analyzed using interactive thematic analysis techniques. Results: Correctional counselors provided four types of social support: (1) emotional support, by acting as empathetic listeners to minimize anxiety and depression; (2) informational support, incorporating independent mental health insights and practical guidance regarding conditional release or parole requirements; (3) appraisal support, through verbal praise and tangible rewards to rebuild self-esteem ; and (4) instrumental support, by facilitating healthcare access and involving inmates in vocational training such as culinary arts, furniture making, and agricultural skills. Due to the current absence of professional psychologists, these continuous counseling practices significantly enhance the inmates' psychological resilience. Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of correctional counselors in strengthening inmates’ mental resilience and preparing them for successful social reintegration through intensive and continuous social support approaches ]]>
