Title: The Curious Case of the Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital: And Other Controversies in Psychiatry
Author: Anthony M D’Agostino, MD
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 978-0990439011
Pages: 252
Genre: Medical
Reviewed By: Katherine Kobito

Read Book Review

Medicine has changed in a variety of ways since its inception many centuries ago. Mental health especially has changed for the better, considering how those who were mentally ill were ostracized, ridiculed, and placed in horrifying institutions where they were tortured and thereby the illnesses grew in strength. Thankfully, though, that type of environment has changed, for the better. Psychiatrists have the task of meeting with the individual and ensuring everything in their power is being done to assist the person with their problems; through the diagnoses, prevention, study, and treatment, as the definition states, of the illness.

In The Curious Case of the Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital: And Other Controversies in Psychiatry, author Anthony M D’Agostino (MD), discusses the practice of psychiatry, its evolution, the growth of the Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, as well as the funding the U.S. sets aside for these services. An engrossing book of tales, in what could be real situations, detailed descriptions of what exactly the ABBHH is, and how it has affected others. This book will have you hooked from page one.

Reading the tales, facts, and growth of the ABBHH, as well as other events that have happened in the services of Psychiatry, was a truly fascinating experience and I could not put it down. It did not take me long to complete reading it, for the writing and information I learned was incredible and captivating. I have always been interested in the study of medicine, especially regarding mental health, for I think it is so important for all aspects of the human psyche to be healthy: emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally. Therapy, to many is seen as taboo, especially in countries where it isn’t very common to speak openly about mental health, or some areas here in America, can be a very helpful service that has the potential to increase the quality of life. I believe that a hospital such as ABBHH, which is still functioning today, would be able to be of assistance to someone who seeks it.

If you or a loved one is suffering from any form of ill health, whether it’s depression, anxiety, excessive mood swings, or simply need someone to talk to, it is always advised to seek a professional. If, however, you feel scared or worried to speak to a stranger, find someone close to you. It is never safe and healthy to remain silent, for it can be dangerous for yourself and others if you’re feeling unsteady and insecure, for emotions have a way of gripping the spirit sometimes, threatening to bring you down, and even create hostile situations. Reading the history of psychiatry, at least at this hospital, was a real eye-opening experience for me, and I strongly recommend that if you have an interest in the topic and want to learn more about the practice of it at this hospital, definitely give The Curious Case of the Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital: And Other Controversies in Psychiatry a go.