12 Surprising Facts About Sigmund Freud to Celebrate His Birthday on May 6
Sigmund Freud was a complex and influential figure whose personal life was just as fascinating as his theories.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
May 6 marks the birthday of Sigmund Freud, one of the most well-known names in psychology. While his theories have sparked debate, his life reveals many lesser-known and surprising details. These facts offer a deeper look into the man behind psychoanalysis.
1. He spent years researching eels
Paul De La Roussert on Wikimedia Commons
Before studying the human mind, Freud was a medical researcher focused on biology. In the 1870s, he dissected over 400 eels while trying to locate their reproductive organs. The project was unsuccessful, and the lack of results contributed to his decision to move away from zoology. This early experience shaped his scientific approach.
2. He used and promoted cocaine in medical treatment
David Webb on Wikimedia Commons
In the 1880s, Freud studied cocaine and believed it had potential for treating depression and pain. He wrote several papers promoting its use and even gave it to close friends. One case led to addiction and death, which brought criticism to Freud’s early enthusiasm. He later stopped advocating for it but did not publicly retract his support.
3. He was afraid of the number 62
Ferdinand Schmutzer on Wikimedia Commons
Freud mentioned in personal letters his fear of dying at the age of 62. He was also known to avoid rooms numbered 62 in hotels. Despite this fear, he lived until he was 83. His writings show that he took his own dreams and symbols seriously.
4. He was extremely close to his mother
Quibik on Wikimedia Commons
Freud had a strong attachment to his mother, Amalia Freud, who favored him as the eldest son from her second marriage. He once referred to her as “a beautiful woman, proud of her son.” This relationship influenced his thinking about family dynamics and development. The emotional closeness is often cited when studying his theories.
5. He once wanted to go into law or politics
Manfred Kuzel on Wikimedia Commons
Before studying medicine, Freud considered a legal career. He admired strong leaders and was interested in public affairs. He chose science but remained vocal about social and political issues. His letters show an ongoing interest in history, governance, and world events.
6. He included his dog in therapy sessions
Madsjune on Wikimedia Commons
Freud’s chow chow, Jofi, regularly sat in on his sessions with patients. He believed her presence had a calming effect and could even reflect the patient’s mood. If a patient was anxious, Jofi would sit farther away. Freud noted these reactions and used them as informal cues during therapy.
7. He wrote over 1,500 letters to his fiancée
MaryGraceMcConnellproject on Wikimedia Commons
While engaged to Martha Bernays, Freud wrote her detailed and frequent letters. Their correspondence lasted several years before they married. The letters included his thoughts on love, science, and everyday life. Many have been preserved and published as historical documents.
8. He did not invent the idea of the unconscious
Pimbrils on Wikimedia Commons
Freud helped develop and popularize the concept of the unconscious, but he was not the first to discuss it. Thinkers like Friedrich Nietzsche and Johann Herbart had already introduced similar ideas. Freud’s main contribution was organizing these thoughts into a system of psychoanalysis. He gave the concept a central role in mental health theory.
9. He was a collector of ancient artifacts
MOs810 on Wikimedia Commons
Freud gathered a large collection of archaeological items, including Greek, Roman, and Egyptian figures. He kept them in his office and used them for inspiration. He believed they connected with deeper cultural meanings, similar to those found in dreams. The collection is still preserved at the Freud Museum in London.
10. He continued working despite serious illness
David Webb on Wikimedia Commons
Freud developed cancer of the jaw in 1923 due to heavy smoking. He underwent more than 30 operations but continued to write and see patients. The illness caused him significant pain for the rest of his life. He remained intellectually active until shortly before his death.
11. He disliked his experience in the United States
JRennocks on Wikimedia Commons
Freud traveled to the U.S. in 1909 to give lectures at Clark University. He was not impressed by American customs and complained about hygiene and food. He never returned to the country after that trip. Despite this, the U.S. played a major role in spreading psychoanalysis.
12. He chose to end his life with medical help
Ferdinand Schmutzer on Wikimedia Commons
In 1939, Freud was in constant pain from cancer and requested assistance to die. His doctor and close friend, Max Schur, gave him a series of morphine doses. Freud passed away peacefully at home in London. His death was one of the earliest well-known cases of physician-assisted dying.