In the 19th century, asylums were established to care for individuals with mental illnesses. These institutions aimed to provide a safe environment, often emphasizing moral treatment, which included work, recreation, and social interaction. However, conditions varied widely, and many asylums became overcrowded and underfunded, leading to poor living situations. The movement for reform, led by figures like Dorothea Dix, sought to improve conditions and promote humane treatment. Despite these efforts, asylums often faced criticism for their methods and the stigma surrounding mental illness, which persisted throughout the century and beyond.