Chapters in the History of Psychiatry

Chapters in the History of Psychiatry takes readers on an illuminating journey through the evolution of psychiatry, from early attempts to understand “madness” to today’s scientific understanding of mental disorders. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and meticulous historical research, the book explores the diverse ways societies have interpreted and treated mental illness. From mystical and cultural explanations to early scientific approaches—and even treatments that resemble modern holistic practices—the volume captures the richness and complexity of psychiatric history.

The authors also address risky and harmful interventions from the past, illustrating how far the field has progressed. They highlight culture-bound syndromes and folklore-linked conditions, including vampirism, lycanthropy, voodoo practices, and the Islamic dybbuk, showing the intersection of mental health, culture, and society. Featuring 110 carefully restored illustrations, paintings, and photographs, the book combines visual appeal with scholarly rigor, offering a vivid, engaging, and accessible resource for anyone interested in the history, practice, and cultural dimensions of psychiatry.

Prof. Eliezer Witztum – Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at Ben-Gurion University. Author of more than 200 scientific publications and several books in Hebrew on psychiatry and mental health.

Dr. Jacob Margolin – Senior psychiatrist, former director of mental health centers in Jerusalem and Jaffa, district psychiatrist in Tel Aviv, and member of regional psychiatric committees. Editor and co-author of works on forensic psychiatry and the history of mental health