Historical asylums were institutions established in the 18th and 19th centuries to house individuals with mental illnesses. These facilities aimed to provide care and treatment, often influenced by the moral treatment movement, which emphasized compassion and rehabilitation. However, many asylums became overcrowded and were criticized for poor living conditions and inhumane treatment. Over time, the perception of asylums shifted, leading to reforms in mental health care. The rise of psychiatric medications and community-based treatment options in the mid-20th century contributed to the decline of asylums. Today, the focus is on integrating mental health services into general healthcare, moving away from the institutional model of the past.