What is Diogenes Syndrome?ĭiogenes syndrome is a behavioral disorder that happens in both men and women in any socioeconomic status, typically live alone, and are over 60 years of age. Diogenes replied,” I would have you stand from between me and the sun.” Alexander was so taken by his reply that he later said if he wasn’t Alexander he would want to be Diogenes. Alexander found him lying in the sun and asked him, what he could do for him. The minimalist philosopher, Diogenes was the only person who didn’t come to pay his respects. This was due to the ancient tale of what he said to Alexander the Great when the emperor came to Corinth to visit. He reportedly was seen by his contemporaries as someone who had no shame and a contempt for any social organization.
There is little research on this condition but appears to be associated with dementia and other mental health issues, while leading to poor hygiene and self neglect.ĭiogenes was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in the 4th century and lived in a barrel.
How long someone has been exposed to these lower living standards can play a factor in their safety and well being.ĭiogenes syndrome is not listed on the list of the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders 5th edition as a psychological condition. Diogenes syndrome is an unsanitary condition that is likely an unconscious decision that can be attributed to dementia or other underlying mental health issues. Diogenes syndrome is a form of self-neglect, poor-hygiene, social isolation and hoarding that can result from possible mental health, psychological and social problems.