I am sure that many people have been moved to write a blog about the very sad news of the death of Robin Williams as writing things down can definitely help people and it certainly helps me.
From a personal view point as someone who lost a very close friend to suicide less than 2 years ago it brought back many painful memories. I also know what it is like to be suicidal and have tried to take my own life during some very dark moments. The pain of depression is something I struggle to put into words but it is an illness and needs to be recognised as one much more than it is at present.
One thing though that has struck me about today’s news is the amount of people who have commented on what Robin had to be depressed about, or what a shame that he didn’t seek help earlier etc…
The truth and sad reality is that it doesn’t matter who you are, how much money you have, how famous you are, how wonderful your life seems to others – depression and other mental illness can affect anyone at anytime in their life. It might be a long hard struggle over many years, an episode as a child or young person and then nothing or it can hit someone later in life.
The other important thing to remember is that high profile stories like today’s tragic news make headlines but many people lose their lives to mental illness everyday and with on going cuts it mental health services this hasn’t got much hope of improving.
Rest in Peace Robin Williams and all those who have lost their lives from mental illness.