A note on "The Floer Jungle: 35 Years of Floer Theory" by Helmut Hofer

"In addition to the talk by Helmut Hofer about Andreas Floer, I would like to give some background to a tragic part of his life. Therefore, Hofer kindly sent me some more information about Floer's condition.

Andreas Floer was described in the talk as a "complex character" and "rather complicated". In the E-Mail, Helmut Hofer explained that Floer suffered from severe depression, which became worse over the years and got medication for his illness. Sadly, Andreas Floer took his own life in 1991. 

Hofer indicated that up to a point, Floer was able to sustain the stress of his demanding research schedule. Even when Floer seemed to be stressed by the sudden publicity through Atiyah. However, in the end, the increasing length of his depressive episodes made it impossible to satisfy the high standards he set for himself. According to Hofer, this was the main reason for his suicide.

Depression, anxiety and many other mental health issues can arise or be aggravated by long periods of stress and pressure. It can lead to a constant lack of dopamine and higher spikes in adrenaline which can lead to a constant feeling of sadness and emptiness, as well as constant tension and fear. In Germany, over 25% suffer from anxiety, 17.1% have depressive episodes and about 14,5% have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders. If you have a continuous feeling of not being able to perform as you want, have panic attacks or feel the need to talk to someone, the HU has two Psychotherapists to evaluate the situation and to help you if needed.

Beratungsbüro Adlershof: Brook-Taylor-Str. 2, Aufgang C, 1. Etage, Raum 1'302

Everything can be found here.

You can also call the Telefonseelsorge

tel: 0800-1110222

Or 116117 if you want to look for therapy yourself."