Only 50 years ago, individuals with mental illnesses were described as misfits destined for life-long institutionalization. This practice has changed, thanks to a better understanding of the biology behind these disorders. Medications such as the anti-psychotic, chlorpromazine, and the anti-depressant, imipramine, have dramatically improved the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.

The evolution of psychological therapies and medications is the topic of the Douglas’ next Frames of Mind documentary, Untangling the Mind: The Legacy of Dr. Heinz Lehmann. This film, directed by Tom Puchniak, highlights the work of the Douglas’ first Clinical Director Heinz Lehmann, MD, who was a pioneer in psychiatry for introducing antipsychotics to North America and for his groundbreaking research.

Two Douglas experts, psychiatrist David Bloom, MD, and Helene Racine, nurse, M.Sc., M.A.P., director of nursing, will host the evening.

“This film highlights the remarkable work of Heinz Lehmann and shows how he helped transform psychiatric care,” says Bloom, medical chief of the Douglas Psychotic Disorders Program.. “It illustrates that individuals can be successfully treated and even integrate into society. With its presentation, we hope to help dispel some of the myths of mental illnesses and reiterate the importance of treatment―in terms of medication and therapy.”

“Approximately one quarter of the population is affected by mental illness,” adds Racine, nurse, M.Sc., M.A.P., director of nursing. “Increased understanding and awareness of the issues involved are key to facilitating help-seeking and successful treatment.”

WHAT: Frames of Mind: screening of Untangling the Mind: The Legacy of Dr. Heinz Lehmann, hosted by David Bloom, MD, and Helene Racine, nurse, MSc
WHERE: Douglas Hall, Douglas Hospital, 6875 LaSalle Blvd., Verdun
WHEN: May 9, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.