Whau Lunatic Asylum

Whau Lunatic Asylum, also known as the Avondale Mental Hospital, was a psychiatric hospital located in Auckland, New Zealand. It played a significant role in the history of mental health care in the country, reflecting the evolving attitudes and treatments for mental health issues from the late 19th century through to the 20th century.

History

The Whau Lunatic Asylum was established in the 1860s, during a period when the treatment of mental health was undergoing significant changes worldwide. Prior to the establishment of institutions like Whau, care for the mentally ill was largely provided by families or, in more severe cases, patients were housed in jails. The establishment of the asylum was part of a broader movement towards creating specialized institutions for the care of the mentally ill, influenced by the moral treatment philosophy that emerged from Europe.

Facilities and Treatment

The facilities at Whau Lunatic Asylum were designed to house a large number of patients, with the architecture reflecting the prevailing beliefs in the importance of fresh air, sunlight, and the therapeutic value of nature. The asylum included extensive grounds which were used for therapeutic gardening and outdoor activities, believed to be beneficial for the patients' recovery.

Treatment methods at the asylum evolved over time, reflecting broader changes in psychiatric care. Initially, treatments were rudimentary and often harsh, including the use of restraints and isolation. Over time, the introduction of new treatment modalities, such as occupational therapy, psychotherapy, and the use of medications, transformed the care provided at Whau.

Closure and Legacy

The Whau Lunatic Asylum was eventually closed in the late 20th century, as part of a wider movement towards deinstitutionalization and the integration of mental health care into the community. The closure of the asylum marked the end of an era in psychiatric care in New Zealand, with former patients being transferred to community-based services or other facilities.

The site of the former Whau Lunatic Asylum has since been repurposed, but its legacy remains an important part of New Zealand's medical and social history. It serves as a reminder of the changing attitudes towards mental health and the evolution of psychiatric care.

See Also

• History of Psychiatry
• Mental Health in New Zealand
• Deinstitutionalization