First established in 1247, Bethlem Royal Hospital is believed to be the worlds oldest psychiatric hospital. The best known variant of the hospitals name is ‘Bedlam’ which became shorthand for the haos and uproar often associated with the early history of mental health care.
The oldest and still running psychiatric hospital in the UK, providing a glimpse into history of mental health and the treatment development.
Visitors are greeted by the striking statues of ‘Raving’ and ‘Melancholy’ Madness, sculpted by Caius Gabriel Cibber in 1676, which originally adorned the gates of the original Bethlem Hospital. These statues set the tone for the museum’s thought-provoking exhibits. The collection features artworks by individuals who have experienced mental health challenges, including renowned artists like Richard Dadd, Louis Wain, and William Kurelek. These pieces offer intimate insights into the artists’ psyches and the therapeutic role of art in mental health.
There’s a fine line between an idiot or a genius. While we are sane and functional today, you never know what hit you and you become insane next second. So be nice, for everyone is fighting for his or her own battle.
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