Definition
Dorothea Dix was an American advocate for the mentally ill. She worked tirelessly to improve conditions in asylums and prisons. Think of her as a champion for the voiceless. Dix traveled extensively, documenting the mistreatment of patients. Her reports led to the establishment of numerous mental hospitals. She also served as a superintendent of nurses during the Civil War. Dix's efforts transformed mental healthcare in the United States.