Nervous Disease in Late Eighteenth-Century Britain

Discover the intriguing exploration of mental health in the past with Nervous Disease in Late Eighteenth-Century Britain by Heather R. Beatty. Published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in 2016, this insightful paperback spans 256 pages and delves into the historical context of nervous diseases, often regarded as an affliction of the upper class. Beatty employs extensive research from eighteenth-century newspapers, hospital registers, and case notes to shed light on the lived experiences of those suffering from these conditions. This compelling study reveals that 'nervousness' was not merely a social construct but a legitimate medical diagnosis rooted in the medical theories of the time. Perfect for readers interested in the intersection of history and medicine, this book offers a fascinating perspective on how society viewed mental health in the late 1700s.