“Long and Strenuous Duties in France:” Neurasthenia and Nervous Debility among Canadian Nursing Sisters during the First World War

Authors

Ariane Gauthier

Abstract

This article endeavours to understand the strenuous circumstances which caused neurasthenia and nervous debility in Canadian nursing sisters during the First World War. By examining the treatment they received for their condition at the Canadian Red Cross X Special Hospital and at Northwood Hospital for Sick Sisters in Buxton, this article also explores how Canadian medical authorities handled the nurses’ treatment and momentarily challenged previous conceptions concerning mental illness in women.

Recommended Citation

Gauthier, Ariane "“Long and Strenuous Duties in France:” Neurasthenia and Nervous Debility among Canadian Nursing Sisters during the First World War." Canadian Military History 31, 1 (2022)