Another headline, Robin Williams, death by suicide, or so the news stories say.
Unfortunately, Robin Williams is one of the million people
that will die from suicide due to a mental illness this year.
Worldwide, people are talking about this great man’s death.
The opportunity for the intellectual growth of a population here exists because this man's death specifically is causing such a shock. It is unfortunate that it takes one famous persons death to send such shock-waves, but so be it.
Robin Williams is a perfect example of a man whom at least through his various acting and comedy routines, knew how to please others. He could make people laugh and smile. Many around the globe are currently upset because they don't understand how this sort of person could hide such a severe mental illness, but this is the case more often than not.
People with depression can put on a grin and walk through everyday life. You'll never see their pain, because they don't want you to take on their burdens. These people hide their emotions because having any sort of weakness in our society is "bad." They hide because of the stigma that surrounds depression.
It is seriously time to kick that stigma's ass.
We shouldn't have issues discussing mental illnesses like severe depression.
Warning signs include: deep sadness, loss of interest in regular activities, withdrawal from people in general, as well as trouble sleeping and eating.
These are just a few. Imagine it being impossible to move from your bed in the morning because it's like a big ball of sadness is sitting on your chest suffocating you and preventing you from starting your day. This is the type of feeling that people showing these warning signs are struggling with. Severe depression feels impossible to escape, and I know this from personal experience with the debilitating disease.
It is indeed sad that Robin Williams has been taken from us. Hopefully his death, may he rest in peace, will strike a cord with the general population to stand up for mental illnesses like severe depression.
If you or someone you know needs to talk to somebody about the way you're feeling, call the Lifeline. It is a suicide prevention line that helps people with depression as well as and in addition to suicidal tendencies. The phone number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). When you get on the phone with them, they will give you personal information on mental health services in your area.
Don't hide feeling sad, and don't be afraid of the stigma.
Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain, and it's worth fixing with the proper work. Your life is worth it. Give yourself a chance.
Here's an awesome article on the stigma of depression if you'd like to learn more:
http://www.madinamerica.com/2014/03/overcoming-stigma-of-depression/
