The phrase “lobotomy before and after reddit” represents a search query indicative of an individual’s interest in understanding the effects of lobotomies, specifically as discussed and illustrated on the social media platform Reddit. Users often seek firsthand accounts, visual evidence, or anecdotal information regarding the changes experienced by individuals who underwent this controversial medical procedure. For instance, someone might be looking for Reddit threads where family members describe a lobotomized relative’s personality transformation, or where medical professionals analyze case studies presented on the site.
The interest in the “before and after” aspects underscores a desire to comprehend the radical alterations in cognitive and emotional function that could result from a lobotomy. Historically, lobotomies were performed to treat a range of mental illnesses, often with the goal of reducing symptoms such as aggression or agitation. However, these procedures frequently resulted in significant and irreversible cognitive deficits, personality changes, and overall diminished quality of life. The availability of information and personal stories on platforms like Reddit provides a modern lens through which to evaluate the ethical and medical implications of this historical practice.
This article will delve into the historical context of lobotomies, exploring the evolution of the procedure and its perceived benefits during its period of widespread use. Furthermore, it will examine the documented consequences of lobotomies, including the adverse effects on cognitive abilities, personality, and social functioning. Finally, the article will consider the role of online platforms like Reddit in disseminating information, personal accounts, and critical analyses pertaining to the legacy of lobotomy.
1. Historical Context
The phrase “lobotomy before and after reddit” is intrinsically linked to the historical context surrounding the procedure’s rise and fall. Understanding this history is crucial for interpreting the discussions, personal anecdotes, and visual representations found on Reddit. The lobotomy, initially championed as a revolutionary treatment for severe mental illness, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. The procedure involved severing connections in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, aiming to alleviate symptoms of conditions like schizophrenia, severe depression, and anxiety. The historical narrative often presents a simplified cause-and-effect relationship: mental illness leading to lobotomy, with the intended effect of symptom reduction. However, this linear view obscures the complexities and unintended consequences that are now readily accessible and scrutinized on platforms like Reddit.
The importance of historical context stems from the fact that the decision to perform lobotomies was often based on limited understanding of the brain and its functions. The “before” phase, prior to the procedure, was characterized by a lack of effective treatments for debilitating mental illnesses. Desperate families and overwhelmed medical professionals often viewed lobotomy as a last resort. The “after” phase, however, frequently revealed a stark contrast. While some patients exhibited reduced symptoms, many experienced significant cognitive decline, emotional blunting, and personality changes. These outcomes, initially downplayed or overlooked, are now central to the discourse surrounding lobotomies, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where personal accounts and critical analyses challenge the original narrative of unqualified success. For example, historical records might describe a patient as being “calmer” post-lobotomy, while Reddit discussions often highlight the loss of individuality and the inability to function independently, providing a more nuanced and often disturbing perspective.
In conclusion, the historical context of lobotomy is essential for comprehending the contemporary discussions on Reddit. It provides a framework for understanding the initial optimism surrounding the procedure, the subsequent disillusionment as the long-term consequences became apparent, and the ethical concerns that continue to resonate. The ability to access and share personal experiences on platforms like Reddit allows for a more complete and critical evaluation of lobotomy’s legacy, moving beyond the simplified narratives of the past and acknowledging the profound impact on individuals and families affected by this controversial medical intervention.
2. Reddit narratives
Reddit narratives constitute a significant component of the search query “lobotomy before and after reddit,” forming a crucial element in understanding the procedure’s long-term impact. These narratives, generated by individuals directly affected by lobotomies or their descendants, offer firsthand accounts that often diverge sharply from the sanitized historical records. The availability of these personal stories online provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences, challenge established narratives, and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: the lobotomy, performed decades ago, has resulted in tangible and lasting consequences that continue to be documented and discussed on Reddit. The importance of these narratives lies in their ability to humanize the impact of lobotomies, moving beyond clinical descriptions to reveal the lived realities of those affected. For instance, a user might share stories about a grandparent who underwent a lobotomy and subsequently exhibited significant personality changes, cognitive decline, and emotional detachment. These narratives provide context and nuance often missing from traditional historical accounts, demonstrating the procedure’s far-reaching and often devastating effects on individuals and their families.
Further analysis of Reddit narratives reveals patterns and recurring themes. Many users describe the challenges of caring for lobotomized relatives, the difficulty in accessing adequate medical and social support, and the emotional toll of witnessing the decline of a loved one. The narratives often highlight the ethical dilemmas surrounding informed consent, the lack of long-term follow-up care, and the societal stigma associated with mental illness. Practical applications of this understanding include informing medical professionals about the potential long-term consequences of historical medical procedures, advocating for improved care and support for individuals affected by lobotomies, and promoting critical thinking about the ethical implications of medical interventions. For example, medical historians can utilize these Reddit narratives to supplement traditional research methods, gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the patient experience. Additionally, support groups and advocacy organizations can leverage these narratives to raise awareness and advocate for policy changes that benefit individuals with cognitive and mental health challenges.
In conclusion, Reddit narratives play a critical role in shaping contemporary understanding of the lobotomy’s legacy. These firsthand accounts offer invaluable insights into the procedure’s long-term consequences, challenging established narratives and humanizing the impact on individuals and families. The availability of these narratives online promotes critical reflection, informs medical practice, and supports advocacy efforts aimed at improving the lives of those affected. The practical significance lies in the ability to learn from the past, promote ethical medical practices, and provide compassionate care for individuals with cognitive and mental health needs.
3. Ethical implications
The ethical considerations surrounding lobotomies, as reflected in discussions and content found under the search term “lobotomy before and after reddit,” are profound and multifaceted. The availability of personal narratives and historical analyses on platforms like Reddit has amplified awareness of these ethical concerns, prompting critical re-evaluation of the procedure’s historical application and its lasting impact.
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Informed Consent and Patient Autonomy
The issue of informed consent is central to the ethical debate. In many instances, particularly during the peak of lobotomy’s use, the capacity of patients to provide genuine consent was questionable due to their mental state. Furthermore, even when consent was obtained, the information provided to patients and their families regarding the potential risks and benefits was often incomplete or misleading. Reddit threads frequently feature accounts of families who were not fully informed about the irreversible nature of the procedure and its potential for causing significant cognitive and personality changes. This raises serious questions about patient autonomy and the ethical responsibility of medical professionals to ensure that patients are making fully informed decisions about their treatment.
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Balancing Benefit and Harm
The ethical justification for lobotomies rested on the premise that the potential benefits of symptom reduction outweighed the potential harms associated with the procedure. However, the long-term consequences of lobotomies, including cognitive decline, emotional blunting, and loss of personality, often undermined this justification. Reddit narratives often highlight cases where patients experienced minimal improvement in their mental state but suffered significant and permanent neurological damage. This raises fundamental questions about the ethical obligation of medical professionals to carefully weigh the potential benefits and harms of any medical intervention and to prioritize the well-being of their patients above all else.
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Societal Influence and Stigma
The widespread use of lobotomies was influenced by societal attitudes towards mental illness and the perceived need to control or manage individuals deemed “unmanageable.” The procedure was sometimes used as a means of social control, particularly in institutional settings where resources were limited and patients were often marginalized. Reddit discussions frequently address the stigma associated with mental illness and the historical tendency to view lobotomy as a convenient solution for managing difficult patients, rather than as a genuine attempt to improve their quality of life. This highlights the ethical responsibility of society to challenge stigmatizing attitudes and to ensure that individuals with mental illness receive compassionate and effective care.
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Long-Term Responsibility and Care
The ethical implications of lobotomies extend beyond the initial procedure itself to encompass the long-term responsibility for the care and well-being of patients. Many individuals who underwent lobotomies required ongoing support and assistance due to the cognitive and functional impairments they experienced. Reddit narratives often reveal the challenges faced by families in providing this care, particularly in the absence of adequate medical and social support. This raises ethical questions about the responsibility of medical professionals and society to provide long-term care and support for individuals who have been harmed by medical interventions, and to ensure that their needs are met with compassion and respect.
In summary, the ethical considerations surrounding lobotomies, as explored through the lens of “lobotomy before and after reddit,” encompass issues of informed consent, balancing benefit and harm, societal influence and stigma, and long-term responsibility and care. These ethical concerns continue to resonate today, prompting critical reflection on the history of lobotomies and the ethical principles that should guide medical practice.
4. Cognitive Changes
The search term “lobotomy before and after reddit” frequently leads to discussions and information regarding the cognitive changes resulting from this surgical procedure. The prefrontal lobotomy, designed to sever connections within the prefrontal cortex, often resulted in significant alterations in cognitive function. These changes, varying in severity and manifestation, are a recurring theme in narratives and analyses found on Reddit and other online platforms. The availability of personal accounts and medical information allows for a comprehensive examination of the specific cognitive domains affected by lobotomy.
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Executive Functioning Deficits
Executive functions, encompassing planning, problem-solving, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, are often significantly impaired following a lobotomy. The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in these processes, and its disruption leads to difficulties in organizing thoughts, making decisions, and adapting to new situations. Individuals may exhibit impulsivity, perseveration (repeating actions or thoughts), and impaired judgment. Reddit narratives frequently describe lobotomized individuals struggling with everyday tasks requiring planning and organization, such as managing finances or following complex instructions. For instance, stories might detail an inability to maintain employment or manage personal affairs due to a lack of executive control.
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Attention and Concentration Impairment
Lobotomies commonly affect the ability to focus attention and maintain concentration. This can manifest as distractibility, difficulty sustaining focus on tasks, and reduced processing speed. The disruption of neural pathways involved in attention networks leads to a diminished capacity to filter out irrelevant stimuli and maintain mental focus. Accounts shared on Reddit may describe individuals becoming easily overwhelmed by sensory input or struggling to follow conversations. Examples might include an inability to read books or watch movies due to a shortened attention span.
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Memory Deficits
While lobotomies are not primarily targeted at memory centers, they can indirectly affect memory function. The prefrontal cortex plays a role in working memory and the retrieval of long-term memories, and its disruption can lead to difficulties in these areas. Individuals may exhibit problems with encoding new information, recalling past events, and holding information in mind for short periods. Reddit narratives may describe difficulties in remembering names, dates, or recent conversations. Examples might include an inability to recall personal history or to learn new skills.
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Language and Communication Difficulties
Although less common than other cognitive impairments, lobotomies can sometimes affect language and communication skills. The prefrontal cortex is involved in higher-level language processing, such as understanding complex syntax and interpreting social cues. Damage to this area can lead to difficulties in expressing thoughts clearly, understanding nuanced language, and engaging in effective communication. Reddit accounts may describe individuals exhibiting difficulty finding the right words, struggling to follow complex arguments, or misinterpreting social cues. Examples might include an inability to participate in meaningful conversations or to express emotions effectively.
These cognitive changes, frequently discussed in the context of “lobotomy before and after reddit,” highlight the profound and often debilitating effects of this procedure. The personal accounts and medical information shared online provide a valuable resource for understanding the specific cognitive domains affected, the range of impairments experienced, and the long-term impact on individuals and their families. The recurring themes of executive dysfunction, attentional deficits, memory impairment, and language difficulties underscore the ethical concerns surrounding lobotomy and the importance of considering the potential cognitive consequences of any medical intervention targeting the brain.
5. Personality Shifts
Personality shifts represent a central and often devastating consequence associated with lobotomies, a connection frequently explored within the context of “lobotomy before and after reddit.” The severing of neural connections in the prefrontal cortex, the brain region crucial for personality expression, often results in profound and irreversible alterations in an individual’s character, emotional regulation, and social behavior. The effect is often a marked contrast between the pre-lobotomy personality and the post-operative state. The importance of understanding these personality shifts stems from the fact that they often constitute the most readily observable and impactful consequence for the individual and their family. Real-life examples, readily found in personal accounts and historical records discussed on Reddit, include formerly vibrant and engaged individuals becoming apathetic, emotionally blunted, or socially withdrawn. The practical significance lies in recognizing the profound and lasting impact on the individual’s sense of self and their ability to interact meaningfully with the world.
Further analysis of personality shifts reveals specific patterns. Blunted affect, characterized by a reduction in emotional expression, is a common outcome. Individuals may exhibit a lack of empathy, diminished interest in activities they previously enjoyed, and a general flattening of emotional responses. Impulsivity and disinhibition are also frequently reported, leading to socially inappropriate behavior and a lack of self-control. Changes in social interaction are often observed, with individuals becoming withdrawn, isolated, or exhibiting difficulty in maintaining relationships. Examples of these personality shifts can be found in Reddit threads where family members describe the transformation of their loved ones after lobotomy, noting the loss of humor, creativity, and the ability to form meaningful connections. These descriptions often underscore the profound sense of loss experienced by families as they witness the alteration of their loved one’s core personality.
In conclusion, personality shifts are a critical component of understanding the long-term consequences of lobotomy, a subject often discussed within the framework of “lobotomy before and after reddit.” These shifts, ranging from emotional blunting to disinhibition and social withdrawal, represent a significant and often devastating outcome for individuals and their families. The challenges in addressing these changes are considerable, given the irreversible nature of the brain damage. However, recognizing and understanding these personality shifts is crucial for promoting ethical considerations in medical practice and for providing compassionate care to individuals affected by this controversial procedure. The exploration of these narratives provides a valuable resource for understanding the human cost of lobotomy and its lasting impact on individual identity.
6. Emotional impact
The emotional impact of lobotomy is a central theme within the discourse surrounding “lobotomy before and after reddit.” Discussions often revolve around the profound emotional consequences experienced by both the individuals who underwent the procedure and their families. These emotional ramifications, ranging from blunted affect to complex grief, contribute significantly to the overall understanding of lobotomy’s legacy.
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Emotional Blunting and Apathy
A common consequence of lobotomy is emotional blunting, characterized by a significant reduction in the range and intensity of emotional expression. Individuals may appear apathetic, detached, and indifferent to situations that would typically elicit a strong emotional response. This diminished emotional capacity can profoundly impact their ability to form and maintain relationships, experience joy, and navigate social interactions. The impact on family members is often considerable, as they witness a loved one’s personality transformed into a state of emotional detachment.
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Increased Irritability and Emotional Lability
In contrast to emotional blunting, some individuals may experience increased irritability and emotional lability following a lobotomy. This can manifest as sudden outbursts of anger, heightened sensitivity to criticism, and rapid shifts in mood. Such emotional instability can create challenges in interpersonal relationships and contribute to social isolation. Family members may struggle to cope with the unpredictable emotional responses and the burden of providing constant support and care.
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Grief and Loss Experienced by Families
The emotional impact of lobotomy extends beyond the individual who underwent the procedure to encompass their families. Family members often experience a profound sense of grief and loss as they witness the transformation of their loved one’s personality and cognitive abilities. The “before and after” contrast can be particularly painful, as they mourn the loss of the person they once knew. This grief can be compounded by feelings of guilt, anger, and uncertainty about the future.
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Psychological Trauma and Ethical Considerations
The emotional impact of lobotomy also raises broader ethical considerations regarding the potential for psychological trauma. The procedure’s history is marked by instances where individuals were subjected to lobotomies without their informed consent or a full understanding of the potential consequences. This can result in long-term psychological distress, feelings of violation, and a questioning of the ethical standards of medical practice. The emotional impact serves as a stark reminder of the importance of patient autonomy and informed consent in medical decision-making.
These facets of emotional impact, as highlighted within discussions of “lobotomy before and after reddit,” underscore the profound and lasting consequences of this controversial procedure. The narratives shared online provide a platform for individuals to express their experiences, challenge historical narratives, and promote critical reflection on the ethical implications of lobotomy and its impact on human lives.
7. Social consequences
The social consequences stemming from lobotomies are integral to understanding the complexities of “lobotomy before and after reddit.” The procedure often resulted in significant alterations to an individual’s personality, cognitive abilities, and emotional regulation, directly impacting their social functioning and integration. The causal link is evident: the lobotomy, intended to alleviate symptoms of mental illness, frequently led to unintended social ramifications. The diminished capacity for social interaction, coupled with potential behavioral changes, often resulted in isolation and difficulty maintaining relationships. For example, individuals who once held jobs and actively participated in their communities might become unable to work or engage in social activities, leading to a loss of social roles and a sense of disconnect. The availability of personal narratives on platforms like Reddit underscores the importance of considering these social consequences as a critical component of the lobotomy’s overall impact. Understanding these consequences highlights the ethical considerations surrounding the procedure and its long-term effects on individuals and their families.
Further analysis reveals that the social consequences extend beyond the individual, affecting family dynamics and community support systems. Families often faced considerable challenges in caring for lobotomized relatives, navigating their altered behaviors, and accessing appropriate resources. The stigma associated with mental illness and lobotomy could further isolate these families, limiting their access to social support and understanding. Practical applications of this understanding include advocating for improved social services and support networks for individuals with cognitive and behavioral impairments, promoting education to reduce stigma, and informing medical professionals about the potential social consequences of interventions that impact brain function. Historical research and anecdotal accounts can be utilized to inform the development of more effective and compassionate approaches to mental health care and social inclusion.
In conclusion, the social consequences represent a crucial, often overlooked, dimension of the lobotomy’s legacy, as explored through the lens of “lobotomy before and after reddit.” The diminished social functioning, isolation, and strain on families highlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of the procedure’s long-term impact. Addressing these consequences requires a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing medical, social, and ethical considerations. By acknowledging and addressing the social ramifications of lobotomy, a more complete and humane perspective on its history and its continuing relevance to contemporary discussions about mental health care can be fostered.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding lobotomies, particularly as they are discussed and represented on the platform Reddit. The information provided aims to offer a clear and objective understanding of this historical procedure and its long-term consequences.
Question 1: What exactly was a lobotomy?
A lobotomy, also known as a leucotomy, was a surgical procedure that involved severing connections in the brain’s prefrontal cortex. This area is responsible for higher-level cognitive functions, including planning, decision-making, and emotional regulation. The procedure was intended to alleviate symptoms of severe mental illness, but often resulted in significant and irreversible cognitive and personality changes.
Question 2: Why were lobotomies performed?
Lobotomies were primarily performed in the mid-20th century as a treatment for severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, severe depression, and anxiety. At the time, there were limited effective treatments available, and lobotomies were often seen as a last resort for patients who did not respond to other therapies. The goal was to reduce symptoms such as aggression, agitation, and delusions, even if it meant altering the patient’s personality and cognitive abilities.
Question 3: What were the typical “before and after” changes observed in lobotomy patients?
The “before and after” changes varied depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Common changes included reduced emotional expression (blunted affect), decreased initiative and motivation, impaired judgment, cognitive decline, and personality alterations. While some patients experienced a reduction in symptoms, many also suffered significant and irreversible cognitive and functional deficits. Personal accounts on Reddit often highlight these stark contrasts, detailing the loss of personality and cognitive abilities following the procedure.
Question 4: What are the ethical concerns associated with lobotomies?
The ethical concerns surrounding lobotomies are significant and multifaceted. Key issues include the lack of informed consent (particularly in cases where patients were unable to fully understand the procedure), the potential for unintended and irreversible harm, the question of whether the benefits outweighed the risks, and the potential for the procedure to be used as a form of social control, rather than a genuine attempt to improve the patient’s well-being.
Question 5: How does Reddit contribute to understanding lobotomies?
Reddit provides a platform for individuals to share personal accounts, historical analyses, and critical perspectives on lobotomies. The platform allows family members of lobotomized individuals, medical professionals, and historians to connect, share information, and challenge established narratives. The accessibility of these narratives provides a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the long-term consequences of lobotomies, often supplementing or contradicting official medical records.
Question 6: Are lobotomies still performed today?
Lobotomies are rarely performed today. Modern advancements in psychiatric medications and therapies have largely replaced the need for this invasive procedure. In extremely rare cases, a modified form of lobotomy may be considered as a last resort for patients with severe and treatment-resistant mental illness, but only after a rigorous ethical review and with the fully informed consent of the patient (if possible) and their family.
The information presented aims to provide a factual overview of lobotomies, emphasizing the complexities and consequences of this historical procedure. The ongoing discussions and personal narratives found on platforms like Reddit contribute to a more complete and nuanced understanding of its legacy.
The subsequent section will delve into resources and support options available for individuals and families affected by the long-term consequences of lobotomies.
Navigating Information
This section provides guidance on accessing and interpreting information related to the historical procedure of lobotomy, drawing on discussions and resources found through the search term “lobotomy before and after reddit.” Navigating this complex topic requires a critical and informed approach.
Tip 1: Prioritize Credible Sources: Exercise caution when evaluating information sources. Favor peer-reviewed medical journals, academic texts, and reputable historical accounts. Be wary of sensationalized or biased portrayals, even if presented as personal narratives.
Tip 2: Cross-Reference Information: Compare information from multiple sources to identify common themes and potential discrepancies. Discrepancies may indicate bias or inaccuracies that warrant further investigation. Avoid relying solely on single narratives or opinions.
Tip 3: Consider the Context of Personal Narratives: Personal accounts on Reddit and similar platforms offer valuable insights into the lived experiences of individuals and families affected by lobotomies. However, these narratives are subjective and may not represent the full spectrum of experiences. Acknowledge individual experiences as part of a larger, more complex history.
Tip 4: Be Aware of Potential Biases: Recognize that historical accounts and medical literature may reflect the biases of the authors or the prevailing attitudes of the time. Consider alternative perspectives and challenge assumptions, especially when examining the initial justifications for lobotomies.
Tip 5: Understand the Evolution of Medical Ethics: Medical ethics have evolved significantly since the widespread use of lobotomies. Consider the ethical implications of the procedure in light of contemporary standards for informed consent, patient autonomy, and the balance between potential benefits and harms.
Tip 6: Recognize the Diversity of Outcomes: The effects of lobotomies varied widely depending on factors such as the individual’s pre-operative condition, the extent of the surgery, and the post-operative care received. Avoid generalizations and recognize the diversity of outcomes experienced by individuals who underwent the procedure.
Tip 7: Engage in Respectful Dialogue: When engaging in discussions about lobotomies, approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for the experiences of those affected. Avoid judgmental language and prioritize accurate and informed communication.
By following these tips, a more informed and nuanced understanding of the history, consequences, and ethical implications of lobotomies can be gained. This approach facilitates a critical evaluation of the procedure’s legacy and its relevance to contemporary discussions about mental health care.
The subsequent section will offer a conclusive summary of the key aspects addressed within this discourse on lobotomies, emphasizing the importance of informed awareness and compassionate understanding.
Conclusion
The exploration of “lobotomy before and after reddit” reveals a complex and often disturbing chapter in medical history. This inquiry underscores the profound impact of lobotomies, both intended and unintended, on individuals, families, and societal attitudes toward mental health. The availability of information, personal narratives, and critical analyses on platforms like Reddit provides a crucial avenue for understanding the long-term consequences of this procedure, challenging historical narratives and prompting ethical reflection. The cognitive changes, personality shifts, emotional impact, and social consequences detailed throughout this discourse emphasize the importance of considering the human cost of medical interventions and the need for informed consent, ethical practice, and compassionate care.
The legacy of lobotomy serves as a stark reminder of the potential for medical progress to be intertwined with unintended harm. Moving forward, a commitment to ethical principles, rigorous research, and patient-centered care remains paramount. Continued dialogue and critical analysis, facilitated by online platforms and academic inquiry, are essential for ensuring that the lessons of the past inform the future of mental health treatment and societal attitudes toward those living with mental illness.
