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Is Bipolar The Root of Genius?

Almost since the beginning of time, human beings have recognized the connection between intelligence or creativity and mental illness. Consider the way these individuals are portrayed in movies and books, for instance - the mad scientist working day and night in his laboratory, the hallucinating artist who doesn't even take time out from his creative work to eat. Those with Bipolar disorder are not immune to this stereotype. In fact, scientists and researchers have noted that an unusually high number of creative geniuses also suffered from Bipolar disorder.

Although many of the following individuals did not live in a time period when Bipolar disorder was a recognized disease, specialists who have studied their journals and experiences cited by others have proposed these geniuses probably suffered from the disorder. The reason Bipolar may bring about this increase in creative abilities is linked to the nature of the disease. One symptom of mania is an increase in creative, mental and physical energy. This might explain why these people were able create such works of genius, and why they were able to devote such concentrated periods of time to their work.

These creative geniuses included novelist Virginia Woolf, who brought us numerous first rate novels including Mrs.Dalloway, Orlando and A Room of One's Own. Poet Sylvia Plath also suffered from the mood swings associated with Bipolar disorder. Musician and composer Ludwig van Beethoven is also believed to have suffered from Bipolar Disorder. He is known as perhaps the most influential composer of all times bringing us masterpieces such as Choral Symphony and the Waldstein Sonata.

Perhaps best known for her role as the Southern belle Scarlet O'Hara in Gone with the Wind, actress Vivien Leigh was also plagued with Bipolar Disorder. Despite the disease and the shock therapy she was given as the treatment for Bipolar in those days, Mrs. Leigh won two Oscars for her performances.

Painter Vincent Van Gogh is also said to have suffered from Bipolar disorder. His most loved painting Starry Night was painted while Van Gogh was in a mental asylum for treatment of his erratic moods. In his own words Van Gogh said of himself, "It is only too true that a lot of artists are mentally ill - it's a life which, to put it mildly, makes one an outsider, I'm all right when I completely immerse myself in my work, but I'll always remain half crazy."

More recently, Axl Rose, lead singer of the heavy metal band Guns N' Roses has also been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Grammy nominated country and western singer Charley Pride also suffered with Bipolar Disorder. Musician and actor Sting has also made references to being Bipolar. A final famous actor diagnosed with Bipolar disorder is Jean-Claude Van Damme, known for his roles in movies such as Universal Solider and Timecop.

Although it may not always be the case, it seems that as we look through history, some of the most creative people who have shared our planet have suffered from Bipolar Disorder. So does the emotional instability of Bipolar disorder bring about genius? You be the judge.

Riley Hendersen

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