The Douglas Institute

The Douglas Institute is a global pioneer in mental health and innovation has been at its core since it was first established.

The Douglas Institute was founded in 1881 by Alfred Perry in the Verdun borough of Montreal. The Douglas is the realization of the idea that human beings should not be condemned to live an existence apart from society because of mental illness. Treating mental illness requires doing so with love, compassion, and respect for the dignity of the person. It is on these solid foundations that the expertise of our mental health teams evolved.

A global pioneer in mental health

The Douglas Institute is a global pioneer in mental health and innovation has been at its core since it was first established. This incredible history reminds us that we have always done our best to build hope for people suffering from mental illness. We strive to create a better world because we are all responsible to one another and we need to be our best selves to improve the lives of our loved ones as well as their mental health.

1881

The Douglas Institute is founded in Montreal

The establishment embodies the idea that human beings should not be condemned to live an existence apart from society because of mental illness.

1889

Appointment of the first Medical Superintendent

Dr. Thomas J.W. Burgess was opposed to the immobilization of patients in what was then referred to as “asylums”.

1916

World War 1

The Douglas is in a precarious financial position – only patients who constituted a danger to themselves or others could be admitted.

1923

Modern era of psychiatry

Discovery of the first treatments specifically dedicated to people suffering from mental illnesses.

1936

First woman appointed as Director

Dr. Mary Palmer becomes Head of the Medical Team at the Douglas; several other women follow in her footsteps and join our ranks.

1946

A military nurse denounces inaction

A past patient that was treated at the Douglas states that “[…] Public apathy and lack of funds hamstring our mental hospitals”.

1950-1959

Breakthroughs in medication

The first antipsychotic drug that enables recovery in patients suffering from severe mental illness is discovered.

1962

Fighting social stigma

Nurse Ann Robson organizes a group outing with 25 patients. The population gradually begins to accept the presence of patients among the community.

1967

Mentalities are changing

Patients begin to feel accepted in their community and gradually join ranks as full members of society.

1979

Formal creation of the Douglas Research Centre

Specialized in neuroscience and mental illness, its mission is to understand, prevent, and treat mental health disorders through science.

2006

The Douglas, a national leader

The Douglas Institute is globally recognized for its expertise in patient care, research, education and technology assessment.

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An exceptional history

Learn more about the fascinating story of the Douglas Mental Health University Institute. Together, we will forever change the face of mental illness.

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