Psychiatry Conducts: A History of Psychiatric Practice from Ancient Greece to the Present

Introduction

Psychiatry Conducts is a comprehensive and authoritative history of psychiatric practice from ancient Greece to the present. Written by Taki Athanassios Cordas, a leading expert in the field, this book provides a fascinating and in-depth look at the evolution of psychiatry as a medical specialty.

Ancient Greece and Rome

The book begins with a discussion of psychiatry in ancient Greece and Rome. Cordas explores the early Greek theories of mental illness, which were based on the belief that mental disorders were caused by imbalances in the four humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. He also discusses the development of psychiatric treatments in ancient Greece, such as bloodletting, purging, and hydrotherapy.

The Middle Ages

The Middle Ages saw a decline in psychiatric practice, as the Church took control of medicine. Mental illness was often seen as a sign of demonic possession, and treatment was often limited to prayer and exorcism. However, there were some notable exceptions to this trend, such as the work of the Arab physician Rhazes, who wrote a comprehensive treatise on mental illness.

The Renaissance and Enlightenment

The Renaissance and Enlightenment saw a renewed interest in psychiatry. This was due in part to the rise of humanism, which emphasized the importance of the individual. As a result, there was a growing belief that mental illness was a medical condition that could be treated. This led to the development of new psychiatric treatments, such as moral therapy and occupational therapy.

The 19th Century

The 19th century saw the emergence of psychiatry as a modern medical specialty. This was due in part to the work of Emil Kraepelin, who developed a system for classifying mental disorders that is still used today. Kraepelin also made important contributions to the understanding of schizophrenia and other major mental illnesses.

The 20th Century

The 20th century saw the development of new psychiatric treatments, such as psychoanalysis, behavior therapy, and drug therapy. These treatments have revolutionized the treatment of mental illness, and have made it possible for people with mental illness to live full and productive lives.

The Future of Psychiatry

The future of psychiatry is bright. There is a growing understanding of the causes of mental illness, and new treatments are being developed all the time. This means that people with mental illness can look forward to a better future.

Conclusion

Psychiatry Conducts is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of psychiatry. This book provides a fascinating and in-depth look at the evolution of psychiatry as a medical specialty, and it is sure to leave you with a greater understanding of mental illness and its treatment.