Carl Bell (physician) facts for kids
Carl Compton Bell (born October 28, 1947 – died August 2, 2019) was an American doctor and professor. He taught about mental health and public health at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Bell was a top researcher for the National Institute of Mental Health. He wrote over 575 books, chapters, and articles. These writings covered important topics like preventing violence and HIV. He also studied sleep problems and how to help children who have seen violence.
Dr. Bell was the leader of the Community Mental Health Council, Inc. This is a large group that helps people with mental health. He also directed the Institute for Juvenile Research. This place is known as the start of child psychiatry. He worked as a psychiatrist at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago.
Early Life and Education
Carl Bell was born in Chicago's Bronzeville area. He finished Hyde Park High School in 1965. He then went to the University of Illinois. In 1967, he earned a science degree in biology. He later got his M.D. degree from Meharry Medical College.
He trained to be a psychiatrist at the Illinois State Psychiatric Institute in Chicago. After his training, he served in the United States Navy from 1974 to 1976. Then, he started his career helping communities in Chicago. He worked at places like Jackson Park Hospital. He also helped build the Community Mental Health Council. This center grew into a large place that helps many people.
His Work and Impact
During his 35-year career, Dr. Bell wrote many articles on mental health. He also wrote a book called "Sanity of Survival." Many famous magazines like Ebony and People Magazine interviewed him. He also appeared on TV shows like "Nightline" and "The Today Show." He shared his expert ideas around the world.
Dr. Bell was a member and leader of many important groups. These groups included the National Medical Association's Psychiatry section. He was also a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He helped start the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. He advised government groups on how to prevent violence. He also helped with reports on mental health and youth violence.
Memberships
- Member, National Medical Association. He was a former Chairman of the Psychiatry section.
- Member, Black Psychiatrists of America. He was a former vice-president.
- Fellow: American College of Psychiatrists and American Psychiatric Association.
- Founding Member and Past Board Chairman, National Commission on Correctional Health Care.
- Member and Former Director, American Association of Community Psychiatrists.
- American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was an examiner for the board.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Carl Bell received many awards for his important work.
- October 2011: He received the Solomon Carter Fuller Award from the American Psychiatric Association. This award honors Black citizens who have greatly helped Black people's quality of life.
- May 2012: He got the Agnes Purcell McGavin Award for his work in preventing mental illness in children. He also received a Special Presidential Commendation for helping people with mental health wellness.
- May 2014: He was given the Distinguished Service Award by the American Psychiatric Association. He also received the Abraham Halpern Humanitarian Award.
- December 2016: He was honored by Marquis Who's Who for his excellent work in mental health care.
- November 2018: He received the Bernard P Harrison Award of Merit. This is the highest honor from the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare. It is given to people who have greatly improved correctional health care.
- May 2019: He was given the Adolph Meyer Award for his lifetime achievements in psychiatric research.
- June 2019: The Carl C. Bell Community Wellness Scholarship and Award was named after him. This award helps people in North Lawndale who are working to address trauma in their community.
- July 2019: He received the Scroll of Merit from the National Medical Association. This is the highest honor from the NMA.
