Some Observations on Early Nervous and Mental Cases, with Suggestions as to Possible Improvement in our Methods of dealing with them

Abstract

It is quite likely with regard to the title of this paper that critics may say—“Why cannot the writer say clearly what she is going to talk about? The words ‘early nervous and mental,’ cover so enormous an area,” or again “Why in any case should we of the Medico-Psychological Association be troubled with the word ‘nervous’ ; surely that pertains exclusively to the Neurological Society? Why should nerves—inferior spinal things—be mentioned in the august presence of those con cerned with the brain?” and yet there is no nerve of interest in the healthy human being which is not interdependent upon, or in close association with a brain. It is inconceivable that any nerve should suffer and leave the brain unaffected, if not from impressions sent up and down, then from absence of impres sions, and it is upon this vital essential oneness of the whole nervous system that I wish to lay stress to-day.