Lord Clive Did Not Suffer a Mood Disorder

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to clarify questions regarding Lord Clive's early suicidal behavior and mental health.

Method: We examined various historical texts.

Results: Clive suffered gallstones with episodes of cholecystitis. We could find no evidence that Clive engaged in suicidal behavior in his early life, nor evidence of a mood disorder (depression or bipolar disorder) throughout his life or at the time of his death.

Conclusions: Although reports of famous people who have suffered mental disorders may help to decrease the stigma associated with these conditions, there is a need for caution before make such a diagnosis. In the case of Lord Clive, we could find no evidence of a major mood disorder.