In ancient times, there were several approaches to treating mental illness.
One common method was through herbal medicine. Ancient healers used various plants and herbs that they believed could balance the body's "humors" or energies. For example, herbs like valerian were used to calm the nerves and induce relaxation.
Another approach was trepanation. In some ancient cultures, a hole was drilled into the skull, which was thought to release evil spirits or pressures that were causing the mental disorder.
Also, rest and isolation in a quiet and peaceful place were sometimes recommended. This was based on the idea that a calm environment could help the patient's mind to recover. Spiritual and religious practices were also involved. Priests or shamans would perform rituals to exorcise the so - called "demons" that were considered to possess the patient and cause mental illness.
