Maradona Suffered from Bipolar Disorder, Last Psychologist Testifies

In the ongoing trial surrounding the death of football icon Diego Armando Maradona, his final psychologist, Carlos Díaz, has provided crucial testimony regarding the late star's mental health. Díaz asserted that Maradona battled not only addiction but also bipolar disorder and narcissistic personality disorder, painting a complex picture of the legendary athlete's struggles.

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In Maradona, a comorbidity of addiction had to be addressed. Beyond the addictive spectrum, there was a bipolar disorder and a narcissistic personality disorder to address.

Díaz's account detailed Maradona's final days, emphasizing the footballer's efforts toward recovery. He described Maradona as having a "total adherence" to the recommended abstinence from substances and alcohol, and importantly, a genuine "desire to be well" in the 29 days preceding his death. This testimony directly challenges narratives that might suggest a lack of will or effort on Maradona's part to overcome his challenges, particularly as the autopsy revealed no alcohol or illicit substances in his system at the time of death.

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he was exceptional, very sober, lucid, connected, and most importantly, with the desire to be well.

During his extensive declaration, Díaz addressed criticisms concerning the frequency and length of his therapy sessions. He defended his approach, explaining that forcing contact with a patient, especially one undergoing addiction treatment, would be counterproductive and could damage the therapeutic relationship. Díaz stressed that it is "expected" for patients in such situations to exhibit resistance, and his strategy was to build trust rather than impose himself.

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It is totally anti-therapeutic to kick a door to see a patient, it makes no sense. The only thing I am going to generate is to dynamite a therapeutic bond that is beginning to form.

Reflecting on the case, Díaz expressed profound "impotence" that Maradona's desire for sobriety and his progress were not enough. He highlighted that the toxicology reports confirmed Maradona had been "clean for 23 days" and had "become aware of the problem and was addressing it." This perspective from a close professional confidant offers a poignant insight into Maradona's final battle, emphasizing his personal commitment to recovery amidst his well-documented health issues.

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What gives me the most impotence is that I was convinced that the patient wanted to be clean. The evidence showed that, the toxicological examination showed that. He ended his life with 23 days clean. He became aware of the problem and was addressing it. It makes me angry that it could have been achieved.