The "Rest Cure" was a treatment method popularized in the late 19th century, primarily for women suffering from mental health issues, particularly nervous disorders. It emphasized complete physical and mental rest, often involving isolation from stimulating environments and activities. Patients were typically prescribed a strict regimen of bed rest, limited social interaction, and a high-calorie diet. This approach was notably advocated by Silas Weir Mitchell, a physician who believed that rest could restore mental health. However, the method has been criticized for its lack of scientific basis and potential to exacerbate feelings of confinement and helplessness in patients.