Creativity and Bipolar Disorder

Almost since the dawn of time, human beings have recognized the connection between intelligence or creativity and mental illness. Consider the way these individuals are depicted in films and books, for example - the mad scientist working day and night in his laboratory, the mind-blowing artist who does not even take time from his creative work to eat.

The researchers noted that an unusually large number of creative geniuses suffered from bipolar disorder. The reason why bipolar can lead to this increase in creative abilities is related to the nature of the disease. A symptom of mania is an increase in creative, mental and physical energy. This could explain why these people were able to create such works of genius and why they were able to devote such concentrated periods of time to their work.

Among these creative geniuses was the novelist Virginia Woolf, who brought us many first-rate novels. The poet Sylvia Plath also suffered from the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder. The musician and composer Ludwig van Beethoven is also said to suffer from bipolar disorder.

Perhaps best known for her role as Southern belle Scarlet O'Hara in Gone with the Wind, actress Vivien Leigh was also plagued by bipolar disorder. Despite the illness and shock therapy, he was given the treatment at the time.

The painter Vincent Van Gogh is also said to suffer from bipolar disorder. His most beloved painting Starry Night was painted while Van Gogh was in a mental asylum for the treatment of his erratic moods.

Although not every person with bipolar disorder may create lasting works of art or literature, there is a higher percentage of bipolar artists and writers. So, does the emotional instability of bipolar disorder cause genius? Perhaps one day we will know the answer for sure.