To investigate the artist’s possible mental disorders, the experts interviewed art historians familiar with the artist’s 902 letters – 820 studied medical records created by his brother, Theo – and the doctors who treated him.
The Dutch master, who made about 900 paintings during his lifetime, died in 1890 at the age of 37 from mental illness suicide.
He is believed to suffer from a combination of bipolar and borderline personality disorder, although these diseases were never diagnosed.
Experts believe the delirium occurred after the artist was forced to drink alcohol after being admitted to hospital.
Researchers say the Dutch master experienced several serious depressive episodes in the last year of his life – at least with psychological characteristics.
The team also denied some of the theories surrounding Van Gogh’s suspected illnesses, including the notion that Van Gogh was suffering from schizophrenia, the rare metabolic disease porphyria and gas poisoning from carbon monoxide “very unlikely.”
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However, experts say the theory that Van Gogh suffered from epilepsy, a diagnosis established by his own doctors, is “open to debate.”
In a study published Monday in the international journal Bipolar Disorder, researchers say that the artist’s potential “kedkai epilepsy,” also known as “focal epilepsy,” can lead to a variety of anxiety, delusions and hallucinations. In Van Gogh’s case, it can result in brain damage associated with alcohol abuse, malnutrition, poor sleep and mental fatigue.
Although tests such as imaging techniques and EEG tests (electric signal tests) were not available, experts say it is difficult to say with certainty whether he has epilepsy.
Researchers have warned that since they do not interview the artist themselves, their findings should be considered with caution.
“We think we can safely make some of the diagnoses suggested earlier and we are more or less certain about the many diseases they were suffering from, but we will never know for sure,” said Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, who coordinated the research. Said William Knoll in a statement.
“And although Van Gogh’s letters contained a great deal of information, we must remember that he did not write it to his doctors, but to his brother Theo and other family members and other relatives to inform, reassure or get him. He did something. .He may have worn out or embellished some things. So, our article on Van Gogh’s illnesses will definitely not be the last. ”
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