Yes, there have been several famous mathematicians who have reportedly experienced major depression or mental health challenges. Some of them include:
Kurt Gödel (1906-1978): A brilliant Austrian mathematician and logician known for his incompleteness theorems. Gödel struggled with mental health issues throughout his life and had periods of severe depression and paranoia. He spent time in psychiatric hospitals and eventually died of self-starvation.
Georg Cantor (1845-1918): A German mathematician known for his work in set theory and the development of the concept of different infinities. Cantor experienced bouts of depression and mental instability, leading to multiple hospitalizations.
John Nash (1928-2015): An American mathematician known for his work in game theory, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Economics. Nash battled with schizophrenia, which included episodes of severe depression and delusional thinking.
Évariste Galois (1811-1832): A French mathematician who made significant contributions to the theory of equations and group theory. Galois suffered from depression and died in a duel at the young age of 20, possibly related to his emotional struggles.
It's important to recognize that mental health challenges can affect individuals from all walks of life, including brilliant and accomplished mathematicians. These examples highlight the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health issues in all spheres of society, regardless of a person's achievements or intellectual prowess. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health problems, seeking professional help is essential for appropriate support and treatment.