Psychiatric Hospitals & Asylums in 1950s America 1953, 720p

Summary

The script narrates the journey of Fred Clinton through the Oklahoma State Hospital, a mental institution. Fred, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, experiences fear and paranoia, believing others are against him. The hospital provides a range of treatments, including insulin shock therapy, occupational therapy, and recreational activities, which help Fred regain his mental health and prepare for a return to society. The story highlights the importance of a supportive environment in the recovery process and the hope for patients to reintegrate into their communities.

Takeaways

• 🏥 The script describes a mental hospital, referred to as a 'Bug House,' where patients like Fred Clinton are admitted against their will.
• 🔒 Fred feels trapped, believing that the hospital is a place where people are locked up and the key is thrown away, reflecting his sense of despair and entrapment.
• 🧠 Fred's mental state is in turmoil, with confusion about his identity and paranoia about others, including George and Betty, turning against him.
• 👥 The hospital is depicted as a place for people from all walks of life, including the elderly, disturbed individuals, and veterans, each with their own tragic stories.
• 🏢 The hospital is a self-contained city with facilities for treatment, work, and recreation, aiming to provide a comprehensive environment for patient care.
• 🍞 Work opportunities within the hospital, such as in the kitchen and laundry, serve as therapeutic activities for patients, helping them focus on the present and aiding in their recovery.
• 🏛 The script highlights the importance of a supportive and secure environment in the hospital, which is essential for effective treatment and patient well-being.
• 🩺 Fred undergoes a series of medical and psychiatric evaluations, including blood tests, x-rays, and specialized psychological tests, to determine his condition and appropriate treatment.
• 💉 Fred is diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and receives insulin shock therapy, which is a common treatment for his condition at the time.
• 🎾 Recreational activities are available for patients, such as movies, games, and sports, which help to alleviate boredom and provide a sense of normalcy.
• 🏡 Fred's recovery process includes occupational therapy, social interaction, and eventually, a return to work and home, with the support of the hospital staff and his family.

Q & A

What is the nickname given to the mental hospital in the script?

The Bug House.

Who is the main character in the script, and what is his situation?

The main character is Fred Clinton, who is in a mental hospital and feels that everyone, including his wife Betty, is against him.

What is the general atmosphere described in the mental hospital?

The atmosphere is described as dark and oppressive, with the implication that once inside, one might never get out.

What are some of the reasons patients end up in mental hospitals according to the script?

Some patients are old and unable to work, rejected by their families; others are disturbed and unable to care for themselves; and some are physically and mentally ill.

What is the role of the cafeteria in the hospital?

The cafeteria serves plentiful and good food, and also offers patients work opportunities, which is part of their therapy.

What is the significance of the power plant's smokestack in the hospital?

The smokestack, being 52 feet tall, represents the importance of power in the hospital, as it is essential for heating, lighting, and running various facilities.

What is the process for admitting a patient like Fred Clinton into the hospital?

Fred was committed by court order, which is one of the methods for admission. He undergoes a series of medical and psychiatric examinations upon arrival.

What treatment is prescribed for Fred in the script?

Fred is prescribed insulin shock therapy, which is a common treatment for schizophrenia.

What is the purpose of occupational therapy for patients like Fred?

Occupational therapy helps patients draw away from their feelings of antagonism and suspicion, and move closer to reality, aiding in their recovery.

What recreational activities are available for patients in the hospital?

Recreational activities include movies, games like dominoes or pool, sewing, getting a permanent wave, and participating in sports like softball.

What is the significance of Fred being granted grounds privileges?

Grounds privileges signify that Fred is making progress in his recovery, as it allows him to be outside, work, and enjoy the sun and seasons.

What does Fred's return home represent for him?

Fred's return home represents his successful recovery and ability to face the world again, despite potential judgment from others.

Outlines

00:00

🏥 Life in a Mental Hospital

This paragraph introduces the setting of a mental hospital, referred to colloquially as 'the Bug House,' where the protagonist, Fred Clinton, finds himself confined. The narrative captures his confusion and fear, feeling entrapped and misunderstood by those around him, including his wife Betty and his friend George. The script transitions to describe the broader context of mental hospitals, emphasizing their role as a last resort for the elderly, the disturbed, and those with chronic conditions. It outlines the variety of patients, from those requiring full care to those capable of limited work within the hospital's facilities. The paragraph concludes by highlighting the importance of a supportive and therapeutic environment for patient recovery.

05:01

📝 Admission and Initial Assessment

Paragraph 2 delves into the admission process and initial assessments at the mental hospital. It details the procedures for voluntary admission, certification by medical examiners, and court-ordered commitments, using Fred Clinton's case as an example. Upon admission, patients undergo a series of medical and psychiatric evaluations, including blood tests, chest x-rays, and neuropsychiatric checks. The paragraph also discusses the role of various hospital staff, from attending physicians to clinical psychologists, in diagnosing and treating patients. The focus is on the comprehensive approach to patient care, aiming to understand and address each individual's mental health needs.

10:01

💉 Treatment and Recovery

This paragraph outlines the treatment process for patients like Fred, who is diagnosed with schizophrenia, paranoid type. It describes the use of insulin shock therapy and other treatment modalities such as electroshock and hydrotherapy. The importance of a calm and secure environment for effective treatment is emphasized, as is the role of occupational therapy in helping patients reconnect with reality. The paragraph also touches on the individualized nature of treatment, with patients moving through different stages of care based on their improvement. The narrative highlights the hospital's efforts to foster a sense of normalcy and hope, offering recreational activities and social interactions to support patients' well-being and recovery.

15:04

🌱 Rediscovering Life and Preparing for Discharge

Paragraph 4 follows Fred's progress as he begins to show signs of improvement and is granted more privileges, such as grounds privileges. It discusses the various ways the hospital helps patients reintegrate into society, including work opportunities within the hospital grounds and family visits. The paragraph also addresses the emotional aspects of recovery, with Fred expressing a mix of pride in his progress and sadness at leaving the hospital. The narrative concludes with Fred's discharge, reflecting on the transformative impact of the hospital on his life and his newfound ability to face the world outside the institution's walls.

Keywords

💡Mental Hospital

A mental hospital is an institution that provides care and treatment for individuals with mental disorders. In the video's context, it serves as a place where the protagonist, Fred Clinton, is admitted against his will. The term is used to highlight the stigma and fear associated with mental health institutions, as well as the potential for recovery and rehabilitation within them.

💡Paranoia

Paranoia is a mental condition characterized by excessive or irrational suspicions and mistrust of others. In the script, Fred Clinton exhibits signs of paranoia, believing that people, including his wife Betty and friend George, are conspiring against him. This concept is central to understanding his mental state and the challenges he faces in the hospital.

💡Insulin Shock Therapy

Insulin shock therapy, also known as insulin coma therapy, was a medical treatment used in the past for psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia. It involved inducing a coma in patients by administering large doses of insulin. In the video, this treatment is prescribed for Fred, indicating the medical approach to treating his condition during the time period depicted.

💡Electroshock Therapy

Electroshock therapy, now more commonly referred to as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), is a medical treatment that involves inducing a brief, controlled seizure in the patient to treat certain mental disorders. The script mentions it as a potential treatment for other disorders, showcasing the range of medical interventions available in mental health care.

💡Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech and behavior, and impaired cognitive ability. Fred Clinton is diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia in the script, which is the primary reason for his hospitalization and the focus of his treatment.

💡Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is a form of therapy that helps patients develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. In the video, occupational therapy is mentioned as a means to help Fred and other patients draw away from their feelings of antagonism and suspicion, aiding in their reintegration into society.

💡Recreational Facilities

Recreational facilities refer to spaces or activities provided for leisure and enjoyment. The script mentions that the hospital offers a variety of recreational activities for patients, such as movies, games, and sewing, which are important for improving their mood and overall well-being during their stay.

💡Adjustment

Adjustment in the context of the video refers to the process of adapting to new conditions or circumstances, particularly in relation to mental health recovery. Fred's journey involves learning how to adjust to the world outside the hospital, overcoming his mental illness, and regaining his ability to function in society.

💡Personality Evaluation

A personality evaluation is a psychological assessment that helps determine an individual's personality traits and mental health status. In the script, Fred undergoes a variety of specialized tests to evaluate his personality, which is crucial for understanding his condition and formulating an effective treatment plan.

💡Court Order

A court order is a mandate issued by a judge or court that requires an individual to perform, or refrain from performing, a specific action. In the video, Fred is admitted to the hospital by court order, which is one of the methods by which patients can be committed to a mental institution, highlighting the legal aspects of mental health treatment.

💡Recovery

Recovery in the context of mental health refers to the process of regaining physical or mental strength and health after an illness or injury. The script follows Fred's recovery journey, from his initial admission to the hospital to his eventual discharge, signifying the possibility of healing and reintegration into society.

Highlights

Christmas time in a mental hospital, a place referred to as 'the Bug House'.

Fred Clinton's struggle with identity and the perception of being trapped in the hospital.

The hospital as a place where people are locked up and abandoned, reflecting on the dark reality of mental health institutions.

The portrayal of the hospital environment as dark and oppressive, affecting the patients' mental state.

The story of Fred Clanton, illustrating a typical experience at the Oklahoma State Hospital.

The diverse backgrounds of patients in mental hospitals, including the elderly and those with physical illnesses.

The importance of proper care and a favorable environment for therapeutic treatment in mental health facilities.

The role of occupational therapy in aiding recovery, providing a sense of purpose and routine for patients.

The significance of the hospital's power plant and the pride patients take in its operation.

The modern mental institution as a self-contained city with comprehensive facilities for treatment.

The process of voluntary admission to a mental institution and the examination period that follows.

The various methods by which patients are admitted to the hospital, including court orders and medical certification.

Fred Clinton's experience with the admitting process, including recording his case history and undergoing medical tests.

The role of clinical psychologists in evaluating patients' mental disorders through specialized tests.

The treatment board's role in deciding on therapy methods for patients, such as insulin shock for schizophrenia.

The necessity of a calm and secure atmosphere to supplement various treatment methods.

The importance of recreational activities in preventing boredom and aiding the mental health of patients.

Fred's progress with insulin therapy and the supportive role of the psychiatrist in his recovery.

The granting of grounds privileges to Fred as a sign of his improvement and a step towards normalcy.

The preparation for Fred's return to the outside world, including discussions with his family about their roles in his adjustment.

Fred's reflections on his time at the hospital and the mixed emotions of leaving, despite his readiness to face the world again.

Transcripts

Christmas time the holidays is this the

way they end for me here in this place a

mental hospital they call that's a fancy

name that is but I know a better the Bug

House a place where they'll lock you up

and then throw away the key and now

they've got me too me Fred Clinton Fred

Clinton Fred Clinton is that really my

name

everything's so mixed

up these grounds these buildings they're

all so dark everything's dark even the

sky I'll never get

out that George he's turned them all

against me even Betty they keep talking

about me why won't they let me

alone

[Music]

oh my god oh no don't let them take me

in there I'll never get out oh God what

will happen to me

[Music]

now what will happen to Fred now what

happens to all of them the men and women

from from every Walk of Life who each

year pass through doors like this into

the Mental Hospitals of our land here in

the story of Fred Clanton and the

typical Oklahoma State Hospital to which

he came the spotlight focuses on these

[Music]

people many patients are old and often

theirs is a tragedy of hospitals such as

this the tragedy of fathers and mothers

too old to work rejected by their own

children clashed a scile and committed

to Mental Hospitals because there's

nowhere else for them to go yet given

proper care they can still adjust make

new friends to ease the passing of

[Music]

[Music]

years some patients are Disturbed unable

to care for themselves in normal life

situations others are physically as well

as mentally

ill many are capable of limited

adjustment able to work at very tasks

within the

[Music]

hospital there's the veteran returned

from years of service

overseas the farmer who had never set

foot outside his home County till he

came

here deterioration chronic conditions

limit hope for some others may go home

tomorrow meanwhile they're living here

3200 men and women all gathered together

in a modern mental institution a city in

itself complete with every facility for

effective treatment though shortages in

hospital Personnel do exist patients are

secure and comfortable and most of them

are happy for while mere custodial care

can never be enough a favorable

environment and human Comforts are

essential in any therapeutic

[Music]

system for most meals are served

cafeteria style food is plentiful and

good and investment in patient

Health just baking the bread for 3,000

people is a man-sized job

above all though these kitchen chores

offer patients work the therapy of busy

hands the laundry more chances for

patients to focus on specific realities

outside themselves first step along the

road that leads to recovery and

[Music]

release the patients tell you the power

plant Smoke Stack is 52 5 ft tall they

seem to take a personal pride in it

maybe because power is so important here

the sick must have heat and light

there's water to be pumped and food

cooked and laundry

washed patients must be housed and

today's new hospital buildings Center on

human needs and comfor Comfort whether

they provide living quarters or

treatment facilities whether they're for

convalescence older people the

tubercular veterans or occupational

therapy these modern structures are part

of a long range integrated plan to

improve conditions for all who live

within these

[Music]

grounds special units provide homes for

nurses and attendants for they too play

a vital role in helping patients to

regain Health in addition to the regular

staff student nurses come here to learn

to recognize and care for the mentally

[Music]

ill there are lakes for

fishing the hospital Farm Cuts operating

costs provides fresh trucks and dairy

products and the familiar scenes the

work help make patients from rural areas

feel at

[Music]

home they come from all sorts of homes

these patients all kinds of backgrounds

but somewhere along the line life became

too much for

[Music]

them some apply for voluntary admission

to the hospital one of the three

procedures by which residents may enter

a state metal Institution in Oklahoma

many former patients return of their own

free will when new troubles assail them

all applicants for voluntary admission

are held a minimum of 15 days for

examination before they may be

[Music]

released other patients are certified

for admission by two competent medical

examiners this is the second method by

which patients enter the Hospital under

the terms of Oklahoma's mental health

[Music]

law the majority however come by court

order committed either by a judge or a

six-man jury this was the case with Fred

Clinton Fred

Clanton oh yes how are you friend well

I'd be all right if they just left me

alone

well why don't you tell me about it you

can't fool me I know you're in with them

too

Fred I'm going to send you to the

hospital and if you will cooperate with

those doctors I think they'll be able to

do you some

good the admitting clerk records Fred's

case history as soon as he enters the

hospital takes care of valuables until

he sufficiently improved to be trusted

with

[Music]

them escorted to the receiving Ward by

an attendant he's bathed and

[Music]

outfitted he gets a blood test part of

the medical examination given each

patient on admission there's a chest

x-ray

also and a spinal fluid

test finally comes a neuros psychiatric

check designed to bring out data related

to the patient's mental

[Music]

disorder they're turning my wife you

know Betty against me they're taking up

all our time

why do you think they're doing you this

way

well I've been working on this for years

they don't know it but I'm on to

them you see if they can just get Betty

to team up with them and they'll all try

to get

[Music]

together a clinical psychologist gives

Fred a variety of specialized tests in

order to make possible a more accurate

evaluation of his total

[Music]

personality

[Music]

following the examination and testing an

informal meeting of the hospital staff

arrives at a tentative diagnosis of

schizophrenia paranoid type Fred

benefits from the skill and experience

of all members of the staff as well as

the psychiatrist to whose care he is

[Music]

assigned

[Music]

diagnosis and staff approval completed

the patient is transferred to a

treatment board for

[Music]

therapy

[Music]

in Fred's case insulin shock is

prescribed a common treatment for

[Music]

schizophrenia electroshock therapy may

be recommended for other

[Music]

disorders hydrotherapy is useful in

calming Disturbed

[Music]

patients so are sedative

packs but whatever the mode of treatment

it's essential that It Be supplemented

by an atmosphere of security and calm

the effective Hospital must always serve

as a refuge for its patients

a place where they can live quietly

during that period of reorientation in

which they learn how to achieve a better

adjustment to the world

[Music]

outside Dee of adjustment the level of

orientation varies sharply from Patient

to Patient some show a complete loss of

contact with the reality Dark Shadows

across disordered

Minds

in other words are light and life a

return from private worlds to the here

and

[Music]

now as patients improve they are moved

towards in keeping with their condition

they're given the opportunity for

contact with others who are also getting

better shown that their status as

individuals is recognized that no matter

what their problem there still is

[Music]

[Music]

Hope in Fred's case insulin therapy

brought relatively quick Improvement

close link with it helping further was

personal follow-up attention by the

psychiatrist directing his treatment and

[Music]

care

[Music]

occupational therapy reinforced shock

treatment help Fred to draw away from

his feelings of antagonism and suspicion

and move closer to

[Music]

reality boredom is always an enemy of

the metally ill now improving Fred

begins to take increasing interest in

the wide variety of recreational

facilities

patients enjoy movies just as much as

anyone and a hot game of dominoes or

pool or pingpong is always

[Music]

fun the sewing room's popular and a

permanent wave may serve as a milestone

of self-respect for many women in spite

of the bubble

gum

books mean so much to so

many Improvement brings added privileges

a more normal

life what could be better than an

afternoon softball

[Music]

game Friday dancers give Fred a chance

for contact with women on a social plane

help to spark his dormant Pride

religious services in the chapel offer

inspiration then there's the happy day

when Fred is granted grounds

privileges fine doctor as a matter of

fact I feel like going back to

work well uh you have to stay around the

hospital for a few days maybe we can

find you something to do here oh how

would you like to help us out around the

hospital here I don't know whether

there's much I can do or not we have

quite a few jobs that uh you could might

do for example you might uh work up the

dairy you might help out in the garden

or you might uh work over in the

cafeteria or we might even be able to

get you on the ground Pro ground prooof

yes sir I like that a lot I really would

well that's well you just report out

there in the morning and everything will

be all right in the morning yes

sir what a difference that makes at last

Fred can be outside once more working

enjoying the sun and the

seasons there are the days when visitors

come the chance to talk again with Betty

and George comes too and now somehow he

doesn't seem quite as bad as he did

before it's not too long till the

psychiatrist decides that Fred can try

it for a while at home he talks with

Betty and with George helps them to

understand that they two have vital

roles to play in aiding Fred to adjust

successfully to the world

[Music]

outside then the words pass to the

switchboard to call Fred

in

how well he

[Music]

looks a cigarette from the

doctor and Fred's hand is

[Music]

steady packing at last a man can be

proud of the things he's created with

his own two hands and a hospital can be

proud Too Proud to see a patient face

the world

as a man

[Music]

again so this is it today I'm going home

6 months it's taken if I'd come here

sooner I might have been out in three

but all I could think about was fear the

way everyone was all against me how much

I hated George how wrong I was or no not

wrong

sick and now that I'm well again I can't

help feeling just a little sad the way

you always do when you leave a place

where you've lived learned and

grown but I am well and I know it I'm

able to face the world again my own

Hometown I suppose there'll be some

folks who will stare and talk and sneer

but no matter what they say or do one

thing I know these people here this

place and time have given my life back

to

[Music]

me