Lord Clive Did Not Suffer a Mood Disorder

Abstract

We aimed to clarify questions regarding Lord Clive's early suicidal behavior and mental health. We examined various historical texts. 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. 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.