Marilyn Monroe’s Psychological Evaluation
Marilyn Monroe was more than just an actress, singer and beautiful woman. She reportedly had an IQ of 168 and challenged the status quo for women in movies and television. Her work influenced a generation of women trying to embrace their bodies which in turn transcended theatre. She was an unforgettable Hollywood A-list and modelled throughout her career, leaving behind images of her sensuality and grace. Today, there are countless online forums to share and celebrate Marilyn Monroe’s legacy.
But behind all the glamour, Marilyn had a psychiatric history and underwent multiple traumatic sexual and physical assaults during her lifetime which allegedly gave her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Marilyn had a complex diagnosis that ranged from Autism Spectrum Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder. She had been admitted to psychiatric hospital for mental illness during her lifetime and was also addicted to pain medications.
On August 4th, 1962 at the age of 36, Marilyn died of a Barbiturate overdose. The toxicology report shared that the medicine levels were 4 times higher than recommended limit. It was a tragedy of a generation for the actress/ singer who’s filmography spanned 30 films.
I guess, as a person living with mental illness, I am interested in reading stories of people who had some sort of legacy, whether that be of a Pop Culture Icons who lived to inspire, a lawyer who fights for the rights of the mentally ill or a visual artist.
Marilyn’s story gives me mixed emotions. It seems like she could never find stability in relationships and was vulnerable while simultaneously being a beautiful celebrity for film and television. Yet, when I watch her, she ignites an inspiration in my heart. It’s a difficult calling to be both vulnerable and strong. But her story gives me hope that by sharing my ideas and Journaling that I can educate and inform people who are also living with psychological illness as their caregivers, friends and joyful following. I do believe the mentally ill can persevere with support, friendship and a new start.
