Western State Hospital (Washington)

Western State Hospital is a psychiatric hospital located in Lakewood, Washington. It is the largest state-operated mental hospital in Washington and serves as a primary provider of inpatient psychiatric care for adults experiencing severe and persistent mental illness.

The hospital's history dates back to 1871, when it was originally established as the Insane Asylum of Washington Territory. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes and expansions, reflecting evolving approaches to mental healthcare.

Western State Hospital provides a range of services, including acute inpatient care, long-term residential treatment, forensic psychiatric services (for individuals involved in the criminal justice system), and specialized programs for specific populations. The goal of treatment is to stabilize patients, provide therapeutic interventions, and prepare them for successful reintegration into the community whenever possible.

The hospital has faced scrutiny over the years related to patient safety, quality of care, staffing levels, and infrastructure. These issues have led to increased oversight from state and federal regulatory agencies, as well as ongoing efforts to improve hospital operations and patient outcomes. Western State Hospital remains a significant component of Washington's mental health system, playing a crucial role in providing care for individuals with serious mental illnesses who require inpatient treatment. The hospital is administered by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).