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Mysteries of Mental Illness

The Mysteries of Mental Illness

One in four people will suffer from a mental illness during their lives and today, the issue is even more pressing with the Covid-19 pandemic. Explore the story of mental illness in science and society with this four-part series that traces the evolution of this complex topic from its earliest days to present times.

Evil or Illness?, Tuesday, June 22, 9:00pm
An examination of ancient conceptions of mental illness and the establishment of psychiatry with the rise of Sigmund Freud. For much of history, people living with schizophrenia would have been seen as either prophet or devil.

Who’s Normal?, Tuesday, June 22, 10:00pm
Learn how science and societal factors are deeply entwined with our ever-shifting definitions and diagnoses of mental health and illness.

The Rise and Fall of the Asylum, Wednesday, June 23, 9:00pm
Meet the detainees whose lives hang in the balance and discover the harsh realities of care both in and out of jail.

The New Frontiers, Wednesday, June 23, 10:00pm

A look at today’s most cutting-edge treatments, based on the latest scientific understanding of the biological underpinnings of mental illness. These include Deep Brain Stimulation surgery, modern electro-convulsive therapy, and MDMA assisted therapy, also known as ecstasy or molly to treat PTSD.