Vittorio Sgarbi Reveals Battle with Depression Following Government Exit

02-10-2025


Vittorio Sgarbi, the former Italian undersecretary for Culture, has revealed he suffered from severe depression following his departure from government. In an interview with Aldo Cazzullo published in Corriere della Sera, Sgarbi stated that the "true cause" of his depression was "the end of my government experience," which he described as an "absolute injustice" that weighed heavily on him and was recognized by few.

The art critic detailed how the depression stripped him of all desire, saying he "didn't want anything anymore" and "no longer had the will to live." This led to him refusing food, with even the sight of food becoming repulsive to him. His condition deteriorated to the point where he required hospitalization at Rome's Gemelli hospital in February, where he received medical treatment including forced nutrition and intravenous drips.

Sgarbi's physical condition became critically compromised during this period, with his weight dropping to just 59 kilograms. He described being "very weak" and noted that he has since recovered to 71 kilograms. The former minister also revealed the political isolation he experienced, stating that neither Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni nor other members of his Brothers of Italy party contacted him during this difficult period, nor did representatives from his former party, Forza Italia.

The 73-year-old credited his partner Sabrina with saving his life through her love and support, announcing they will now marry. He also acknowledged his sister Elisabetta's constant presence during his recovery, describing how she took him to the best restaurants in Versilia and ordered entire menus in hopes of stimulating his appetite. Following his hospital treatment, Sgarbi has been recovering with friends and family in Viareggio.

Recommended news

Vehicle Plunges from Recoaro Bridge, Driver Perishes

2025-10-20T12:00:18.296Z

A tragic accident occurred in the early hours of Monday, October 20, in Recoaro, Vicenza, when a vehicle plunged from a bridge into the Agno river below. The incident took place on Via della Resistenza near the Recoaro facility, with emergency services receiving the alarm around 6:30-6:35 AM....

Read more


Emilia-Romagna Dominates Environmental Rankings with Five Cities in Top Ten

2025-10-20T12:03:22.362Z

Rimini has achieved a historic milestone by entering the top ten of Italy's most environmentally sustainable cities for the first time, securing eighth place in the 32nd edition of the Urban Ecosystem report by Legambiente and Ambiente Italia, published by Il Sole 24 Ore. The Romagna capital...

Read more


Ranucci's Report to Resume Broadcasts Despite Recent Bombing Incident Near Home

2025-10-20T12:01:56.938Z

Sigfrido Ranucci, the prominent journalist and host of the investigative program Report, has returned to television following a bombing incident on October 17th near his residence in Pomezia. During an appearance on Monica Maggioni's program "In mezz'ora," Ranucci announced the upcoming...

Read more


Makari 4 Returns to Rai 1 With New Personal Challenges for Saverio

2025-10-20T12:02:58.567Z

Makari 4, the fourth season of the popular Italian television series, premieres on Rai 1 on October 19, 2025, continuing the adventures of journalist-investigator Saverio Lamanna portrayed by Claudio Gioè. The new season maintains the signature blend of mystery and character-driven...

Read more


Breakthrough ADC Therapy Shows Promise Against Aggressive Breast Cancer

2025-10-20T12:00:59.574Z

Significant advances in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, were highlighted at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) congress. New data from Phase 3 clinical trials demonstrate that antibody-drug conjugates...

Read more