Battle With Depression and Alcoholism
Roosevelt's paternal grandmother Martha Bulloch Roosevelt had exhibited signs of bipolar disorder. His paternal uncle, Elliott Roosevelt, was afflicted with chronic bouts of depression and died of alcoholism and drug abuse. His maternal grandfather, meanwhile, had been an alcoholic. Alcoholism plagued Roosevelt much of his adult life.
While there were some similarities between Kermit and his Uncle Elliot throughout both their lives, Kermit's dreamy nature was often covered up by an unyielding drive when presented with a task or goal, such as his efforts during the descent of the River of Doubt. Kermit's situation worsened when he learned of his father's death while overseas.
Read more about this topic: Kermit Roosevelt
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