Riverview Hospital

Riverview Hospital was a large psychiatric hospital located in Coquitlam, British Columbia. It was known for its significant contribution to the field of mental health care in Canada. The hospital opened its doors in 1913 and was initially called the Hospital for the Mind at West Lawn. Over the years, Riverview Hospital expanded its facilities and services, becoming a key institution for psychiatric care until its closure in 2012.

History

The establishment of Riverview Hospital was part of a broader movement towards the reform of mental health care in the early 20th century. The hospital was designed to provide a self-sufficient, therapeutic environment for patients. Its campus was situated on a large, picturesque property along the banks of the Fraser River, featuring numerous buildings set amidst extensive gardens and green spaces. This setting was intended to aid in the healing process of the patients.

Throughout its nearly a century-long operation, Riverview Hospital underwent several expansions and changes in its approach to mental health care, reflecting broader shifts in the field. The hospital played a pioneering role in introducing various therapeutic practices and treatments in Canada, including occupational therapy and the use of medication for psychiatric conditions.

Facilities

Riverview Hospital comprised several buildings, each serving different functions and patient populations. The main buildings included:

- West Lawn Building: The original building of the hospital, which primarily housed male patients. - East Lawn Building: Opened in 1930, this building was dedicated to female patients. - Crease Clinic: Opened in the 1950s, focusing on the treatment of acute psychiatric illnesses. - Centre Lawn Building: Served as the administrative center and also provided patient care.

Each building was designed to cater to the specific needs of its patients, with facilities for both inpatient and outpatient treatment.

Closure and Legacy

The decision to close Riverview Hospital was influenced by a shift towards community-based care for mental health, a trend that began in the late 20th century. The hospital officially closed in 2012, with services being transferred to other facilities across British Columbia. The closure marked the end of an era in Canadian psychiatric care but also sparked discussions about the future of mental health services and the preservation of the historic Riverview Hospital campus.

Following its closure, the Riverview Hospital site has been the subject of various redevelopment plans, with a focus on maintaining the area's green spaces and historical buildings. The legacy of Riverview Hospital continues to be a point of interest for historians, mental health professionals, and the community, reflecting on its contributions to psychiatric care and its role in the evolution of mental health policy in Canada.

See Also

• Psychiatric hospital
• Mental health in Canada
• History of psychiatric institutions

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