Paolo Cognetti, the acclaimed writer known for his gripping narratives about the mountains of Italy, recently made headlines not just for his words but for his courage to openly discuss his mental health struggles. The recipient of the prestigious Strega Prize took significant steps forward by sharing his harrowing experience with depression and bipolar disorder, which culminated in compulsory hospitalization earlier this month.
According to Repubblica, Cognetti underwent what is known as TSO, or compulsory health treatment, for severe depression accompanied by manic phases. His hospitalization at the Fatebenefratelli Hospital in Milan lasted about two weeks, during which he faced the stark realities of mental illness, expertly described by his own reflections.
Reflecting on the events leading to his hospitalization, Cognetti explained, "I was bitten by depression without any apparent reason. Coming down from my refuge on Monte Rosa, I was riding a creative wave. Then suddenly, my thoughts began to accelerate. Friends pointed out I was doing strange things." This chaotic phase of his life quickly escalated, and on December 4th, his doctor ordered the TSO.
The author recounted several alarming behaviors exhibited during his manic episodes, including sending nude photos to friends and spending money freely. Describing the impact of these actions, he said, "There was the unfounded fear, in my opinion, of being dangerous to others." The situation reached such a level of concern for those around him, they called for medical support, leading to the presence of police and ambulances outside his home.
Cognetti vividly described the surreal experience of being sedated and waking up to the harsh routines of hospital life. "From the start of December, I have done nothing but sleep," he recalled, highlighting the depths to which depression can fall. Yet, even within the haze, he spoke of the sharp contrasts inherent to mental illness, noting, "One can lose the sense of modesty or the sense of money."
His candid recounting of mental health struggles serves not only to reveal the darker sides of celebrity but also to explore the burden of success itself. Following his literary triumph with The Eight Mountains, Cognetti faced big questions about purpose and identity. "After the success... I asked myself: 'And now what do I do?'" he said, candidly sharing his fears about reaching the peak of his career. With great insight, he added, "The popularity is ruthless and has a significant price."
Yet beyond the confines of his personal crisis, Cognetti emphasized the role of love and relationships as part of his challenges. He candidly shared the emotional toll of leaving long-term partnerships, admitting, "To not abandon the one who had been close to me for long, I also ended the new relationship. One should never give up on love, which doesn’t return." His sentiments echo the struggles many face; love can often complicate mental health issues, transforming personal decisions and responsibilities.
Looking toward recovery, Cognetti articulated his desires for the future: "I would like to have five or six sincere friends, to count on true family." This yearning reflects his desire for genuine connections and the simplicity of human relationships, which can be grounding during turbulent emotional periods. He expressed his hopes of exploration and adventure, longing for freedom: "I want to enjoy the planet, taking refuge in the last remaining original places."
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Cognetti's revelations is his endeavor to destigmatize mental illness. He argued passionately against societal pressures to appear constantly happy and successful, stating, "Mental illness is denied and ignored to perpetuate the ideal of happiness." Through sharing his narrative, he aims to dismantle the taboo surrounding mental health, advocating for honesty and transparency instead. "For me, it’s time to raise the veil of guilt hiding the pain," Cognetti emphatically stated.
His story encapsulates the power of sharing and community awareness for those struggling. "Living is the cure to be able to live," he concluded, underscoring his belief — and hope for others — on the importance of accepting and addressing mental health challenges. Cognetti's words resonate strongly within the current cultural narrative: breaking the silence around mental illness may very well save lives.
