After the Tragic Suicide of Robin Williams, What Can We Learn About Depression as a Disease?

The sudden death of Robin Williams has illuminated the dark nature of depression for the entire world to see. As the truth surrounding the legendary actor’s unexpected suicide continues to come out, millions of mourners are coming to terms with the visceral elements of his mental disease. Here is what everyone can learn about the internal struggles associated with severe depressive disorders.
Depression
Can
Strike
Anyone

All walks of life have to deal with depression, and the turmoil is not mutually exclusive to any particular demographic. While worldly woes may play a role in the onset of depression, there are also many genetic factors at play. As a result, people of all backgrounds can be prone to emotional anguish. The disease does not differentiate between rich and poor. Even those who seem to have it all can lose everything to a single bout with depression.
The
Pain
is
Often
Hidden

The planet was taken aback by the shocking news that Williams was found dead hanging by his belt with superficial lacerations on his wrists. No one had ever expected that the comedian was masking such extreme depths of hopelessness. His endless capacity to instill laughter masked an insidious pain that would only reveal itself through a sudden suicide.
Anguish
Accompanies
Other
Diseases

In the days following the Oscar-winning actor’s death, his wife announced that Williams had also been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease .While other actors, like Michael J. Fox, continued successful careers with the ailment, the medical situation proved to be insurmountable for the man who played the eponymous “Mrs. Doubtfire.” The uncertainty regarding a future with tremors seemingly compounded with depression to culminate in a point of no return.
Suicide
and
Sobriety
are
Linked

A major source of Williams’ despair has been noted to stem from his prolific drug abuse. Even in the last month of his life, the comedian was spotted attending 12-Step programs for sobriety to no avail. A substantial portion of his stand-up routines revolved around the negative ramifications of cocaine, and the hardships of withdrawal may have contributed to his decision to voluntarily leave the world.
People
of
All
Ages
are
Diagnosed

Even though he was well over the age of sixty, Williams still succumbed to depression. This fact alone dispels a common myth surrounding the disorder that it is only a serious affliction for younger people. In fact, suicide rates remain relatively steady among all generations. Unfortunately, dormant issues can surface at any point in one’s life.
It
Affects
Everyone

Williams left behind three adult children in addition to a grieving widow. His family has been hurt the worst, but millions of fans are also experiencing a share of the agony. The graphic details of the scene are also giving the world a first-person view of the visceral trauma. Gratuitous accounts of his death are continuing to be expounded in the media, and few have been spared from the gritty information.
Final
Reflection

In closing, the loss of Robin Williams has sent shockwaves rippling throughout the entertainment industry. While his passing is truly tragic, there is at least hope that others in a similar situation of suffering can reach out and receive assistance. Everyone should be alert to the suicidal ideations of their friends and family. Even the mildest sorrow can grow into a full-blown saga of depression and self-prescribed euthanasia.