In the post-war period, Britain saw a monumental shift in how it dealt with mental illness – the vast Victorian asylums that had once housed 150,000 people across the country were now closed. This seismic revolution is explored in depth in a new documentary, uncovering what it tells us about society’s changing attitudes to mental illness over the last sixty years.
Through gripping interviews with former patients, nurses and doctors, this powerful film paints a touching portrait of those who lived and worked in these institutions – with many revealing their stories for the first time. It also reveals the mixed feelings about closing these institutions; while many felt relieved at no longer being trapped inside them, others felt abandoned and isolated in an anonymous world outside.
This documentary offers an incredibly important insight into how far we have come since Britain’s institutionalised approach to mental health. It shows us that there is still much to be done to continue improving attitudes towards those suffering from mental health problems and to ensure they are properly supported within society.
So if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of this vital topic, then this documentary is definitely worth watching. With its combination of powerful testimonies and detailed reflections on our past mistakes, it offers an invaluable look at what society must do now to improve services for those living with mental illness today.
