59

The following is a partial transcript of an audio tape found in a wooden box salvaged from the old State Psychiatry Hospital. Names and identifying remarks have been edited to protect confidentiality.

The beginning of the tape, Dr. M's description of G, was recorded before the patient was in the room.

Dr. M: Notes for patient G ---, Monday, May 3rd XXXX. Patient was admitted more than a week ago and has finally been cleared for sessions starting today.

My first impression of G. was that he was in his 50s, though we share the same birth year. His clothes are ill-fitting; obviously from a thrift store and not well-chosen. They may have been given to him by a shelter. His shoes are far too big. G. arrived without having had a shower in many days, and the nurses finally had to force him to clean up a few days ago, once he was back on his feet.

My initial feelings are that G. must have a history of untreated depression and perhaps a mild psychosis that is increasing in severity and preventing him from having a more meaningful life. I imagine he will be prescribed anti-depressants and sent back to whatever shelter he's using.

Dr. M sighs and his desk chair creaks as he leans back.

Perhaps services can find G. a nice factory job. He may even be able to have an apartment on his own someday.

Dr. M: The date of this session is Monday, May 3rd XXXX with new patient G ---. G, you understand this session is being recorded, as will all our sessions?

G: ---

Dr. M: For the recording, G. has nodded. G., if you would make all your answers verbal, it would help with our recording. Do you understand?

G: Yes.

Dr. M: G is a 35 year old unmarried white male who was admitted to the State Hospital on Friday, April 23rd, XXXX. This is our first session. The patient's chief complaint is that he feels depressed and separated from society. Is this still accurate G.?

G: Yes.

Dr. M: According to my records, you have never been admitted to the hospital before. Is that accurate?

G: Yes.

Dr. M: You also state that you have never been on psychiatric medicine, and, as far as you know, there is no history of mental illness in your family. Is this accurate, G.?

G: Yes.

There is a pause as Dr. M writes some notes.

Dr. M: Tell me, G., why do you believe you are depressed?

G: (long pause, a sigh, another pause) My dreams... they've gone.