Written by: Amanda Levison, M.S., LMHC, LPC, CCBT
Robin Williams was announced dead today due to suicide. His publicist stated he has been suffering from severe depression for a long time. Williams was a respected actor and comedian that many looked up to and admired. He was open about his inner demons and ways he has coped in the past and ways he actively worked on overcoming them.
Depression is defined as a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities, but accompanied by other symptoms such as feelings of sadness, anxiety, emptiness, hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, guilt or irritability, loss of appetite or overeating, problems concentrating, remembering details or making decisions, and thoughts of or attempted suicide. Ways to help such symptoms would be with a healthy diet and exercise, psychotherapy, neurofeedback and medication if medically neccessary.
39,518 people died by suicide in the U.S. (2011)
108.3 per day
1 person every 13.3 minutes
3.6 male deaths for each female death by suicide
Comparison to highly publicized causes of death per year:
Homicide 16,238
Prostate Cancer 32,050
Moto Vehicle Accidents 35,303
Suicide 39, 518
Breast Cancer 39,520
I grew up admiring Robin Williams for his talents. He will be missed by his fans and supporters but most importantly by his family and friends. Suicide may take the pain away from the individual but adds the pain onto the loved ones left behind. If you or a loved one suffers from severe depression or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a professional who can help.