Sep 14, 2026 · 33 min · 15 segments
Gary shares an experience that began in 1980 while working in the basement of an old psychiatric hospital in Southern Ontario. His job seemed simple enough, but after spending months alone, Gary began…
Gary DeeGuest
Chris FrickeHost
When I asked Gary for details about the exact location of the psychiatric hospital, he wasn't at liberty to say due to the NDA and release forms that he signed when he started the position.
But we don't have to look far to learn about the harsh conditions and dark memories associated with psychiatric hospitals around the world.
The history of insane asylums and psychiatric hospitals is complicated, and honestly, sad to say the least.
Many of the first asylums were actually created with the intention of providing better care for people who had previously been confined to jails and poorhouses.
But by the late 1700s and early 1800s, reformers were pushing for more humane treatment.
But as these institutions grew, many became overcrowded, and reports of neglect, abuse, and physical restraints continued well into the 20th century.
Patients were sometimes restrained with chains, shackles, straps, or other devices And throughout the 20th century, some were subjected to aggressive or experimental treatments that we now know to be dangerous.
When I asked Gary for details about the exact location of the psychiatric hospital, he wasn't at liberty to say due to the NDA and release forms that he signed when he started the position.
But we don't have to look far to learn about the harsh conditions and dark memories associated with psychiatric hospitals around the world.
The history of insane asylums and psychiatric hospitals is complicated, and honestly, sad to say the least.
Many of the first asylums were actually created with the intention of providing better care for people who had previously been confined to jails and poorhouses.
But by the late 1700s and early 1800s, reformers were pushing for more humane treatment.
But as these institutions grew, many became overcrowded, and reports of neglect, abuse, and physical restraints continued well into the 20th century.
Patients were sometimes restrained with chains, shackles, straps, or other devices And throughout the 20th century, some were subjected to aggressive or experimental treatments that we now know to be dangerous.
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