How was life depicted within early psychiatric institutions?

Life within early psychiatric institutions is often depicted as having deplorable living conditions due to the prevalent societal attitudes towards mental health during that time. Many facilities were overcrowded and lacked basic resources, leading to unsanitary and neglectful environments. Patients frequently experienced a lack of adequate care, which often included poor nutrition, insufficient exercise, and minimal human interaction.

The treatment methods were also sometimes harsh, with practices that did not prioritize the dignity or well-being of individuals. The overall atmosphere in these institutions typically reflected a misunderstanding of mental illness, resulting in conditions that were more punitive than therapeutic. This historical context highlights the significant challenges faced by those residing in these institutions, confirming the characterization of their living conditions as deplorable.