The process of closing asylums, often referred to as deinstitutionalization, began in earnest in the mid-20th century and continued into the late 20th century. The timeline and extent of closure varied by country and region.
Here is a general overview:
United States
1950s-1960s: The deinstitutionalization movement gained momentum in the U.S. during this period. This was influenced by the development of antipsychotic medications, growing awareness of the poor conditions in many asylums, and a push for more humane and community-based treatment options.
1963: The Community Mental Health Act, signed by President John F. Kennedy, aimed to establish community mental health centers and reduce reliance on large state hospitals.
1970s-1980s: Many state-run psychiatric hospitals were gradually downsized or closed, with patients being moved to community-based care settings.