Loss of Robin Williams

According to the National Institutes for Mental Health, Major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO; 2010), reports major depression carries the heaviest burden of disability among mental and behavioral disorders. Specifically, major depression accounts for: 3.7 percent of all U.S. disability-adjusted life years (DALYs); and, 8.3 percent of all U.S. years lived with disability (YLDs). (NIMH.Nih.gov). Depression is clearly a substantial problem in our country – and today that fact became so much clearer.

The incredible, heartbreaking loss of Robin Williams today reminds us that depression can strike anyone, regardless of how happy they appear.  I read a quote once that goes something like this “The sensitive among us suffer the most.”  I don’t know who said it, but I believe it to be true. Robin Williams always appeared so sweet and fragile behind his twinkling eyes, as he made us laugh and stunned us with his ability to embody a character, no matter how different from himself that character was.  In our sadness over  the loss of  Mr. Williams, we are reminded that anyone can be impacted by depression. No matter how funny, how well off financially or how famous. Rick Springfield recently shared of his depression with Upworthy.  Countless actors and comedians suffer and use substances to dull their pain. Some, like Robin Williams are just not just able to carry on.

So often people are afraid to ask directly about suicide, for fear of “planting” the idea in someone else’s head.

Depression is a serious illness and can lead to suicidal thoughts. So often people are afraid to ask directly about suicide, for fear of “planting” the idea in someone else’s head. This is a myth. You will not “plant” a thought. If you are concerned for someone – ask directly and in a supportive way. Offer to talk, and be willing to truly listen – without judgment.  Get support. Do not make promises or be sworn to secrecy. If you are truly concerned and your friend won’t seek help – get it for them – calling others (family, friends, 911 if necessary) and do so quickly. People often worry that they will anger someone or cause a rift in their relationship.  I remind people that we can work through any rift and settle any problem with our friends – we cannot do that if they die by suicide.

Here are some thoughts suicidal people often have: (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline)

I can’t stop the pain
 I can’t think clearly
 I can’t make decisions
 I can’t see any way out
 I can’t sleep, eat or work
 I can’t get out of depression
 I can’t make the sadness go away
 I can’t see a future without pain
 I can’t see themselves as worthwhile
 I can’t get someone’s attention
 I can’t seem to get control

If you feel suicidal, please do not hesitate to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255, 991 or visit your nearest emergency room.  Get help for yourself. You matter. There is hope.