Paolo Cognetti Opens Up About Compulsory Health Treatment and Mental Health Struggles
in a candid and deeply personal interview with The press, paolo Cognetti, the acclaimed author and winner of the 2017 Strega Prize, has revealed the harrowing details of his experience with Compulsory Health Treatment (TSO) and his ongoing battle with severe depression and bipolar disorder.His story sheds light on the complexities of mental health care and the challenges of navigating life in the public eye.
A Traumatic Experience: “In My Opinion, It Was Illegal”
Cognetti’s ordeal began on January 7, 2024, when he visited the emergency room seeking help. What followed was a shocking and traumatic experience. “I found myself tied to a bed with straps, they shot a syringe into my thigh without telling me what was inside. In my opinion, what they did to me was illegal,” he recounted.
The author described the situation as unnecessary and paradoxical. “Of course, I wasn’t well, but I was certainly not perilous. I had my hands in my pockets, I couldn’t hurt anyone, including myself,” he said.Cognetti has no memory of what happened after the injection but later learned that his sister intervened to bring him home.
Living with Bipolar Disorder and Suicidal Thoughts
Cognetti has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a condition he says he has lived with since his youth. “The problem is not the manic phase of the disease. The problem is when the depressive phase arrives. You lie in bed, thinking about how to commit suicide and that your whole life has been useless,” he shared.
During one particularly dark period, he contemplated ending his life. “I wanted to attach a mountaineering rope to a beam of the beam hut and hang myself,” he admitted. His family and friends ensured he was never left alone during this time, highlighting the importance of support systems in mental health recovery.
A New Chapter: Living Without Medication
Today, Cognetti is focused on rebuilding his life.“I’m trying to live without drugs. I’m not a no-vax, but I would like to be able to live without medicine,” he said.While he acknowledges the dedication of healthcare professionals, he is determined to find a path forward that relies less on medication.
The author is also exploring new creative directions. “I believe that the mountain cycle, as I call it, is fatigued for the moment. There are many other things in life,” he explained. this marks a significant shift for Cognetti, whose works often draw inspiration from the mountains.
The Weight of Success
Cognetti’s rise to fame has not been without its challenges. “Success,people recognizing you… in short, it’s not easy.First, you’re that guy in the cabin minding his own business, and then suddenly everyone says hello, stops you on the street, the money comes. It’s not easy,” he reflected.
Despite these struggles, he remains hopeful and inspired by others who have faced similar battles. “I would like to talk to Vasco Rossi. There is so much truth in his songs. The person I would like to talk to most now is him,” he said.
Key Takeaways
| Topic | Details |
|——————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Compulsory Health Treatment | cognetti describes the experience as traumatic and possibly illegal. |
| Bipolar Disorder | Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he struggles with manic and depressive phases. |
| Suicidal Thoughts | Contemplated suicide during severe depressive episodes. |
| Current Focus | Living without medication and exploring new creative projects. |
| Impact of Success | Reflects on the challenges of sudden fame and public recognition. |
Cognetti’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and proper care in mental health treatment. His courage in sharing his journey offers hope and insight to others facing similar struggles.For more on mental health resources and support, visit Mental Health Foundation.
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