Ep 3. Drugs Is the Devil

In Born Behind Bars season 1 episode 3, titled "Drugs Is the Devil," viewers are taken back inside the walls of two American prisons with Nursery Programs that house pregnant women and new mothers behind bars. The episode follows the lives of these incarcerated women as they navigate the challenges of giving birth and raising children in a prison environment while dealing with substance abuse issues.

The episode opens with a young woman named Briana, who is serving a six-year sentence for drug trafficking. She is 5 months pregnant and is worried about the health of her unborn child, which, like her, is addicted to drugs. Briana is determined to get clean and refuses to let her past mistakes define her future. But she finds it difficult to overcome her addiction, which is further fueled by the pervasive drug culture within the prison walls.

Meanwhile, viewers are introduced to Madison, a new mom who has just given birth to her son while serving time for drug-related charges. Madison is fortunate to have a supportive partner, who visits her and their baby regularly and helps her stay on track with her sobriety. But Madison’s freedom and the safety of her child are in jeopardy as she deals with the legal consequences of her drug-related crimes.

As the episode progresses, viewers see the realities of motherhood behind bars. The women face difficult choices about whether to breastfeed or use formula, how to balance time between their children and their daily routines, and the pain of being separated from their loved ones. The episode shows how having a child can be both a blessing and a curse for these women, as they experience profound joy but also face immense challenges in their attempts to provide a good life for their children.

Throughout the episode, it highlights how the women turn to religion for support and guidance. They attend church services and Bible study sessions, finding solace in their faith. Finally, viewers get to see how the women of Nursery Programs lean on each other as they navigate the difficult journey of motherhood behind bars. They share stories, offer advice, and provide much-needed support and encouragement to each other.

Overall, "Drugs Is the Devil" is a heart-wrenching yet inspiring episode that tackles the issue of drug addiction among incarcerated women who are also raising children behind bars. It highlights the struggles and triumphs of these women as they fight to overcome addiction and provide a loving home for their children. It also shows the positive impact of faith, friendship, and community in helping them overcome the challenges of life behind bars.