Rest and Exercise in the Treatment of Nervous and Mental Diseases

Extract

More than a generation ago (in 1860), in Hamburg, I made my first experiment in treating patients suffering from recent insanity, especially the excited, in bed. This treatment, continued in the Göttingen Asylum, forms a prominent part of my system. It may therefore be inferred that the first experiments were confirmed by many excellent results; while, on the other hand, there have not been wanting occasional failures, which, indeed, attend on every method of medical treatment. I am glad to have an opportunity of laying my experience in this matter before the Medico-Psychological Association. My contribution may be taken as a small tribute in recognition of all I have learned from Great Britain throughout my psychiatric career, both in theory and practice.