Paolo Cognetti, the acclaimed Italian author known for his award-winning novel Le otto montagne, has opened up about his struggles with mental health, culminating recently in his admission to the Fatebenefratelli hospital for compulsory treatment due to severe depression and bipolar syndrome with manic phases. This candid disclosure, made during an interview with Repubblica, marks his first public outing on the often-stigmatized topic of mental illness, urging society to shed its shame surrounding such conditions.
Cognetti, 47, described experiencing debilitating depression during the spring and summer of 2022, during which he felt inexplicably drained of energy and motivation. This was followed by bursts of unusual creativity and energy, leading to drastic changes in his behavior. "I realized my thoughts were racing and my actions became erratic," he admitted. Friends voiced concerns when they noticed him sending them unusual photos and making extravagant gifts. His behavior alarmed those close to him; the perception of danger led to immediate medical intervention.
On December 4, 2022, Cognetti was taken from his home by police and ambulance services after his doctor determined he required compulsory health treatment due to fears for his safety and the safety of others. "It felt like I was alive, but more like I was dead," he recalled. For the next two weeks, he underwent treatment at the hospital, where he was medicated heavily and spent much of his time sleeping as he adjusted to the reality of his condition.
After his release on December 17, 2022, Cognetti reflected on the pressures of success, particularly following his victory of the prestigious Strega Prize for Le otto montagne. He found himself grappling with existential questions, "After the great triumph with Le otto montagne, I asked myself: 'What do I do now?'" This introspection deepened his mental crisis as the fear of peaked success haunted him.
During his candid interview, the author voiced his dissatisfaction with dishonesty surrounding mental health issues, stating, "I find people who tell lies insufferable. Mental illness is often ignored to maintain the facade of a happy society. But I am a writer; it's time to lift the veil of guilt hiding the pain.
This acknowledgment resonates as Cognetti denounced the stigma attached to mental health disorders, calling for more open conversations. He firmly believes, "Mental health issues should no longer be hidden out of shame; recovery begins by accepting who you truly are."
Cognetti's personal history includes complex emotional relationships, including the recent end of his long-term partnership, which was exacerbated by falling for another woman. "Never renounce love, which doesn’t come back," he reflected, indicating the emotional turmoil contributed to his mental state. He also articulated the significance of community, expressing his need for genuine friendships and emotional support as he seeks to rebuild his life.
The author now aims to regain his footing. He has plans for new creative projects, including filming documentaries about travel and writing workshops planned for March. Despite the challenges, he has found solace and inspiration as he began drafting another novel—a departure from his recent experiences, he notes, "A light-hearted tale about heavy themes."
For the renowned writer, the road to recovery and self-discovery remains fraught with difficulties. Yet he maintains optimism, asserting, "I need five or six true friends and to enjoy my life, liberated from overwhelming commitments." He detailed his longing to reconnect with nature, aiming for six months of unstructured time to explore and rejuvenate, hoping to immerse himself once again untouched, pristine environments.
Cognetti's story shines as both cautionary and inspiring. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our struggles and advocating for mental health acceptance, turning pain and hardship—both personal and societal—into opportunities for growth and solidarity. His experience sheds light on the fragility of public personas and compels us all to reflect on the emotional depths we often overlook.
