The Tenth Man is a radio show series centered around mental health and the experiences of various individuals suffering from mental illnesses. Produced by the National Mental Health Foundation, the show aims to educate and create awareness of mental health issues throughout the country. Each episode focuses on a specific person dealing with a mental illness, portraying their journey with topics such as depression, loneliness, social phobias, and discrimination against those who have received mental health treatment. The show has an altruistic and educational tone, shedding light on the challenges faced by those with mental health conditions and the need for emotional guidance and support within communities.
Aired on NBC, The Tenth Man consists of thirteen episodes that were broadcast from October 17, 1947, through January 16, 1948. Jackson Beck served as the announcer, while Ralph Bellamy acted as the narrator for this little-known series. One notable episode tells the story of activist Dorothea Dix and her commitment to improving the care of the mentally ill in America and abroad. Born in April 1802, Dix exposed the harrowing conditions of mental asylums at that time, where patients were often beaten, chained, and locked away. The series holds a significant place in history, showcasing the importance of mental health awareness and the need for better psychiatric care and treatment in communities across the country.
Sources: archive.org, otrcat.com