What was one of the earliest methods used in psychosurgery?

Trepanation is recognized as one of the earliest methods used in psychosurgery, dating back thousands of years. This technique involved drilling or scraping a hole in the skull to treat various medical conditions, including neurological disorders and presumed mental illnesses. The procedure was based on the belief that releasing pressure or allowing evil spirits to escape could alleviate symptoms.

Trepanation is significant in the history of medicine because it illustrates the early attempts to directly alter brain function, laying the groundwork for later developments in psychosurgery. Researchers and medical practitioners over the years have explored various surgical methods to address mental health issues, but trepanation remains one of the most ancient practices, reflecting the evolving understanding of the relationship between brain structure and behavior throughout history.