Vittorio Sgarbi, the prominent Italian art critic, is currently hospitalized at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome due to severe depression. As of March 24, 2025, Sgarbi has been declining food and has openly discussed his struggles with his mental health, revealing details of his condition in an interview with Repubblica. "I have lost a lot of weight. I am finding it hard to do anything. At times, I am still able to work," he stated, conveying the weight of his emotional turmoil.
Sgarbi described his depression as a "moral and physical condition that I cannot avoid," further elaborating on how it feels like a mixture of darkness and distress that engulfs him. He noted, "now I spend a lot of time in bed,” highlighting the severity of his state.
The art critic's refusal to eat has raised significant concern among health professionals and his loved ones, which ultimately led to his hospitalization. This behavior signifies a deepening of his depressive state and necessitated constant medical supervision at the Gemelli hospital, which has become a site of personal struggle and support.
Messages of encouragement have poured in from friends and colleagues, including Vittorio Feltri and Marcello Veneziani, both of whom have voiced their support publicly. Feltri shared his own experience with depression, stating, "I have also suffered from it, so I am not surprised by the ordeal you have gone through. The confusion and disorientation it causes can feel like a bottomless pit you want to stay in. It’s foolish to offer advice; each depression is a unique story." His shared sentiments highlight the compassion felt by many for Sgarbi's plight.
In addition to Feltri, Veneziani expressed his wish for Sgarbi to feel the support around him, saying, "I hesitated but believe it is essential to show him that there are those who care about him in his pain." He went on to mention another friend, Santino, an ex-carabiniere who provides unwavering support to Sgarbi, showcasing the dedication of those who aim to uplift him during this tumultuous time.
The situation is indeed delicate, especially in light of the fact that until recently, Pope Francis was also hospitalized at the same facility, which underscores the gravity of medical care and emotional recovery taking place at Gemelli. As Sgarbi’s health fluctuates, reports indicate that he is under strict medical supervision in attempts to stabilize his eating habits and overall health.
Friends and supporters across social media have rallied around Sgarbi, sharing messages of hope and encouragement, urging him to find the strength to combat his current state. David Parenzo, a friend who has been vocal about Sgarbi’s situation, has called on him to "fight," expressing his desire for Sgarbi to return to his vibrant self sooner rather than later.
This outpouring of solidarity illustrates the strong communal bonds surrounding Sgarbi, who has long been a figure of both admiration and controversy in the art world. His struggle with mental illness does not only represent personal suffering; it reflects a broader dialogue about mental health in society today.
As Sgarbi continues on this difficult journey toward recovery, those who care for him remain hopeful. There’s also a growing awareness of how mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of status or fame. As the days unfold, the focus remains on providing him with the necessary support and medical care, hoping that through patience and compassion, he will emerge from this dark time. The world waits with bated breath, wishing for a positive turn in Sgarbi’s health, as the art community and fans around Italy and beyond send waves of encouragement his way.
