Mental Health Becomes Public Concern in Late 1940s – Part 1

In part because of rejection rates during the World War II draft, concerns about the health – including mental health – of the US population developed in the 1940s. The issue was further spotlighted by efforts to deal with readjustment of returning veterans. Hollywood films such as “Spellbound” (1945) and “The Snakepit” (1948) also highlighted the issue. This video provides a popular introduction to the issue. At the time, drug therapies often used today were not available. The only such therapy mentioned is insulin injection. Electroshock is shown as a treatment for depression. There is a vague discussion of brain surgery – perhaps a reference to lobotomy. A version of group therapy is also shown. Psychoanalysis is briefly referenced.