In honor of Black History month and beyond, it is essential to celebrate and remember Black Americans’ remarkable worldly contributions in history and in the present. Black Americans’ culture, innovations, resilience, and leadership have shaped countless fields and influenced the world. Today, we will be recognizing a pillar in mental health: Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller
Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller (August 11, 1872-January 16, 1953) was a brilliant mind in medicine. Born in Liberia, Fuller was the grandson of slaves who bought their freedom in the U.S. and migrated to his birth country. He is recognized as the first Black psychiatrist in the United States and is also a pioneer in Alzheimer’s disease research. Fuller received his medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine and became a psychiatrist at the age of 25.
Fuller spent the majority of his career at his alma mater where he later staffed and trained several African-American psychiatrists. He trained medical staff to diagnose the side effects of Syphilis to prevent the misdiagnosis of African-American war Veterans. This helped the veterans to not be wrongfully discharged and denied benefits.
Fuller’s contributions in mental health are under appreciated and under recognized. He was a trailblazer in his field and an honorable part of United States history.
Thank you Dr. Fuller!
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