Probable Causes of Insanity, Missouri State Lunatic Asylum, 1854, courtesy Missouri State Archives

The causes for insanity that early alienists compiled can seem amusing–as well as appalling–to modern readers. Almost anything, from disappointment in love, financial reverses, over-study, improper diet, use of alcohol or tobacco, and masturbation could derail mental health, it seemed. However, most of these causes really stemmed from one primary cause: civilization. Continue reading →