Bethlem

Bethlem Royal Hospital is a psychiatric hospital in London, United Kingdom. It is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the world, having been founded in the 13th century. The hospital is known for its historical significance and its contributions to the field of psychiatry.

History

Bethlem Royal Hospital was founded in 1247 as the Priory of the New Order of St Mary of Bethlem. It was initially a center for the collection of alms to support the Crusader Church and was located outside the city of London. Over time, the hospital began to admit the mentally ill, becoming one of the first institutions in Europe to do so.

Facilities and Services

Today, Bethlem Royal Hospital provides a wide range of mental health services, including inpatient care, outpatient services, and community programs. The hospital is part of the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, which is one of the largest mental health providers in the UK.

Legacy

Bethlem Royal Hospital has a significant legacy in the field of psychiatry. The term "bedlam," which is often used to describe chaos or confusion, is derived from the hospital's name. This is due to the hospital's historical reputation for poor treatment of patients, which has since improved significantly.

See Also

• History of Psychiatry
• Mental Health
• South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust

References

Bethlem Resources
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