First published in 1908 A Mind That Found Itself was written to abolish many fears regarding insanity, and to correct abuses in its treatment. This is the personal account of the author's experience in a private sanatorium and in an insane asylum. In 1900 he was first confined to a private mental institution for depression and paranoia. Later Beers spent time in a private hospital as well as a state institution. A Mind That Found Itself told of the abuses he suffered at the hands of the staff and medical profession. This work was instrumental in helping to get reforms for the treatment of the mentally ill.