What was a significant change in attitudes towards mental health care in the 1800s?

In the 1800s, one of the most notable developments in the attitudes toward mental health care was the rise of humanitarian reform movements. These movements marked a significant shift in how society viewed individuals with mental illnesses. Prior to this change, individuals with mental health conditions were often subjected to inhumane treatment, confinement, and a lack of understanding.

Humanitarian reformers advocated for more compassionate and dignified care. They emphasized the need for moral treatment and aimed to improve the conditions within asylums and hospitals. The efforts led to the establishment of institutions that focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment, emphasizing the importance of psychological care and social support for those with mental health issues. This shift laid the groundwork for modern mental health care, promoting a more holistic and empathetic approach to treatment that recognized the humanity and rights of individuals with mental illnesses.