Investigation of the Past of a Family Member Admitted to a Psychiatric Facility

Paris – June 20, 2026: In recent years, inquiries from descendants seeking information about ancestors who were institutionalized in psychiatric facilities have significantly increased. This phenomenon reflects a growing interest in uncovering family secrets and understanding often painful pasts.

For example, genealogical inquiries to the Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP) archives increased from 436 cases in 2023 to 579 in 2025. This rise shows an increasing desire to reconstruct and understand family history.

A notable case is that of Nastassia Time, who investigated the past of her great-aunt Hélène for seven years. Hélène was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 19 in 1939 and was admitted to a psychiatric facility, where she spent 11 years until her death from tuberculosis in 1950. Through the investigation, Nastassia uncovered shocking facts about the harsh living conditions her great-aunt endured, gaining a deeper understanding of her family history.

However, such investigations can be emotionally challenging. Discovering family secrets or past traumas can be difficult for descendants to accept. Nevertheless, these inquiries provide an opportunity to gain a more complete understanding of family history and a deeper insight into one’s roots.

For those wishing to conduct similar research, various resources are available. Online platforms like Filae.com provide access to digitized French records, such as birth, marriage, and death records, census data, military records, and help users reconstruct their family history and learn more about their ancestors.

However, it is important to note that access to medical or psychiatric records may be restricted by data protection laws. Some records may only be accessible after a certain period or under specific conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to check relevant legal regulations before starting research.

In summary, family history investigations that reveal past secrets can be a valuable tool for understanding one’s identity. Despite potential emotional difficulties, this journey offers the chance to better understand one’s origins and vividly preserve the stories of ancestors.

For additional information and support regarding genealogical research, one can contact professional organizations and archives. They provide useful advice and facilitate access to resources for decoding family history.