Statement of cases treated at Abington Abbey, near Northampton, during 1853 / with a few observations by Thomas Prichard.

  • Prichard, Thomas.
Date:
1854
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Statement of cases treated at Abington Abbey, near Northampton, during 1853 / with a few observations by Thomas Prichard. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    It appears that in one-third of the above cases insanity appeared before the age of 21 years, and in more than two-thirds before the age of 30. Eight out of eleven of the latter were cured. Two died, and one was discharged, relieved. When we consider the important changes that take place in the system at the time of puberty, need we' be surprised to find how prevalent insanity is at that epoch ? These alone will be sufficient to account for derangement of mind occurring so early; but when to these are added the wear and tear of brain and nervous energy in the pursuit of a profession or calling,—and if the individual desires to succeed, this is necessary,—then affections disappointed, hopes unfulfilled, and desires nngratified, the only wonder is that so few comparatively are crushed, or are obliged to succumb. The cases terminating fatally are three in number. The first, a male, died from chronic disease of the liver, consequent upon long-continued intemperate habits. He had suffered from attacks before. The second and third were females. One died of phthisis, and the other from chronic gastritis and ulceration of the intestines. The latter was in a state of imbecility for some years before she died. The question of Restraint and Non-restraint, which has occasioned such long and acrimonious discussions, has not been adverted to in the preceding pages. It is sufficient to state that mechanical restraint is not recognised as forming any part of the treatment here. Seclusion is rarely employed, and only where the presence of others tends to irritate and disturb the patient. Employed in this manner, it is a curable agent, and may be used. It is, however, liable to be abused.