His paintings such as Starry Night and Sunflowers sell for millions on the open market, but throughout his life, his financial choices and vices left him penniless. Van Gogh suffered with chronic alcoholism, particularly turning to the beverage absinthe; a highly addictive psychoactive drug. This famous addicts mind was showing signs of serious problems. While under the influence of alcohol, he cut off his own ear, and later took his own life by shooting himself in the chest.