Highland Hospital utilized a wide variety of contemporary techniques in the treatment of mental illnesses, depression, and substance abuse. These techniques included psychodrama and individual, group, psychopharmacological, and behavior therapy. Many rehabilitation and educational activities were also used including music, athletics, and crafts.
Although Highland functioned mainly as a regional provider, it attracted individuals from around the country. The hospital advertised itself as “an institution employing all rational methods in the treatment of nervous habit, and mental cases: especially emphasizing the natural curative agents – rest, climate, water, diet, work, and play.” Dr. Carroll also wrote at length about the connections between physical, mental, and moral health. He advocated for adherence to a strict diet with limited starches, fats, and sugar along with abstention from tobacco and alcohol.
As the hospital grew, many new programs and services were developed. In addition to its inpatient facilities, Highland also operated an outpatient clinic and a daycare center that allowed local individuals to receive treatment. A new facility, The Halfway House, was built to provide patients with comfortable accommodations where they could live under supervision while also engaging in work or study outside of Highland.
Duke University Medical Center Archives
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