Local Psychiatrist James Hudson Briggs, MD Dies at 75

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James Hudson Briggs, MD, a prominent psychiatrist in southeast Michigan, passed away on December 16, 2025 at the age of 75. Briggs had a long and distinguished career, working as a child psychiatrist and faculty member at the University of Michigan Medical School. He was also deeply involved in forensic psychiatry, working with incarcerated youth to help them successfully reintegrate into society upon release.

Why it matters

Briggs' passing marks the end of an era for mental health care in Michigan, as he was a respected and influential figure in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry. His dedication to advocating for vulnerable youth and providing compassionate care will be greatly missed by his patients, colleagues, and the broader community.

The details

Briggs began his medical career in family practice before transitioning to psychiatry, completing residencies at Brown University. He spent over two decades working in hospitals and community mental health centers across southeast Michigan, with a focus on child and adolescent patients. In addition to his clinical work, Briggs served as a faculty member at the University of Michigan Medical School, sharing his expertise with the next generation of psychiatrists. He was also deeply involved in forensic psychiatry, working with incarcerated youth to develop plans for successful reintegration into society.

• Briggs was born on July 19, 1950 in Portland, Maine.
• He passed away on December 16, 2025 at the age of 75.
• Briggs retired from medicine in 2018 after over 40 years of practice.