ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a general overview of some of the uses that history can play in improving human health and well-being. It starts by briefly outlining the evolution of this cross-disciplinary perspective, particularly since the 1980s, and then goes on to describe the different ways history has been mobilized for the betterment of health—most notably in the development of policies and medical research. The therapeutic value of having a historic understanding is also described, especially in terms of its utility in providing a shared community of experience to nurture and console sufferers and patients, often (but not exclusively) in the realm of mental health care. Some key examples illustrating these successful uses of history are outlined, and useful resources and websites are signposted.
