These individuals may be struggling with one or more challenges within a broad range of mental illnesses and developmental or intellectual disabilities.

[7] At the beginning of the 20th century, patients began to work on nearby farms during harvest season as part of their daily tasks to establish a sense of routine and serve as free labor for local farmers.

Residents played sports and were able to attend movie nights, dances, and religious services.

[8] Since 2015, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin have been collaborating to improve conditions at the Austin State Hospital by organizing committees of regional stakeholders and working to focus operational budgets to secure the highest and most personal levels of care.

[10] As a response to this influence and to an increasing demand for comprehensive mental health services due to complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Texas Legislature approved $745 million for the renovation and improvement of Texas psychiatric facilities in the 85th and 86th Legislative sessions.

[11] The Old Main Building, a portion of the original institution, remains intact as a Texas Historic Landmark.

[12] As of March 2022, the newly renovated facility covers 375,000 square feet and contains 240 private patient bedrooms.