[Problems in the rehabilitation of mental patients in rural districts (author's transl)]

We report on the establishment and organization of a residential home, located in a small, fairly industrialized community without institutional background (nearest psychiatric treatment facilities more than 100 km away). Following a description of the structure of the populace, a report on the difficulties encountered in the attempt to integrate the inmates of the communal house into the local social frame, is provided. It is shown that a two year period was needed, before adequate communication between local population and home residents could be established and a satisfactory relationship realized. After a detailed account covering the rehabilitation methods employed, the special problems connected with legal and social re-integration are discussed (i.e.: transportation facilities to and from the communal home and the pace of employment). We conclude our review by a report on the results obtained and attempt to provide a number of suitable suggestions on possible improvements, for discussion and comment.