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Period: to
Process of Deinstitutionalization
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First Lobotomy Takes Place
Dr. Walter Freeman and his colleague James Watt perform the first prefrontal lobotomy. -
Electroshock Therapy
Italian neurologist Ugo Cerletti uses electroshock to treat patients with schizophrenia. -
Thorazine is Developed
Thorazine becomes a staple drug in mental asylums. -
Over the Cuckoo's Nest
This book is published by Ken Kesey, based on his experience as a nurse in a mental institute. -
Medicaid is Passed
Mental illness treatment is not included in Medicaid, so more people are moved to retirement homes rather than institutions. -
Lanterman-Petris-Short Act
California passes this act, making it more difficult for mentally ill people to be involuntarily hospitalized. -
Mental Health Systems Act
Jimmy Carter signs this to try and improve the service for people with chronic mental illness. -
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
Ronald Regan repeals Carter's act, decreasing federal funding on mental illness by 30 percent. -
Clozapine
Clozapine is developed and approved to treat schizophrenia. -
Psychiatric Beds Are Full
There are 43,000 psychiatric beds in the United States, or about 14 beds per 100,000 people—the same ratio as in 1850.
