We're not mad, we're angry.

Date:
1986
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About this work

Description

A drama documentary in three parts (compiled back-to-back with clocks), which critically examines psychiatry from the point of view of those on the receiving end, the patients. After a series of testimonials from psychiatric patients, there is an unflattering potted history of psychiatric care using black and white animation. The conclusion is that the present is no better than the past; purges have been replaced with shock treatment and drugs. Further testimonials ensue followed by a dramatised sequence filmed from the point-of-view of a depressed housewife with a busy and uncaring general practioner during a consultation. There are further testimonials, followed by the continuation of the story of the housewife with her committal to a clinic. She is asked to bathe and then change into her night things, even though it is lunchtime. Former patients comment on the dehumanising practices upon admittance to a clinic. The drama of the housewife continues, she goes into the day room where there are other patients. Medication is dispensed. Former patients dispel the fact that they can get any rest. They comment on the heavy-handed reaction of staff to various misdemeanours. End of Part One. Part Two. Patients talk about the feelings of anger they felt when they were sectioned, as there was no outlet for these emotions. A patient expresses his dismay that he has heard nothing with regards to his appeal against his section. The dramatised sequences continue with the housewife; she gets to see the consultant. Female patients comment further on their feelings and treatment. Conflicting diagnoses are recounted as well as the reliance on drug treatments. Occupational therapy is talked about, then industrial therapy. End of Part Two. Part Three. Patients discuss ECT, electro-convulsive therapy. The story of the housewife continues with her account of ECT, which she has consented to under pressure. Patients comment on the unpleasant after effects of ECT such as memory loss. The housewife is discharged. Former patients comment on the difficulty in seeking work and how this impacted on their well-being. The closing captions comment on the plight of former psychiatric patients, stating that the 'community does not care'.

Publication/Creation

? : Multiple Image, 1986.

Physical description

1 DVD (64 min.) : sound, color, PAL

Creator/production credits

Producer; Tim Langford, Director; John Hay. Multiple Image Production for Channel Four.

Language note

In English.

Copyright note

Channel Four Television Co Ltd.

Type/Technique

Languages

Where to find it

  • LocationStatusAccess
    Closed stores
    4799D

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