With the sad news of Robin Williams this week, I wanted to take this tragic opportunity to remind everyone that depression is real and it is not something to take lightly.  More people die from suicide a year than homicide. Did you realize that? This is a silent killer that eats away at a person from the inside.  There are always subtle signs but often those closest to the person tend to ignore or miss them.  

Take a person like Robin Williams who makes people laugh for a living.  Did anyone truly know the “real” Robin Williams?  Did he ever show that person to anyone or did he always hide behind the amazing characters we saw on stage and film.

Often people battling with Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and similar Illnesses are very artistic, entertaining, and creative.  They will often not medicate for fear of losing the edge that makes them great at what they do so they end up self medicating and this can end in tragedy.

In the end suicide is an option that is contemplated because these people feel they have no other options.  In their head at the moment the world doesn’t need them.  We all see when it is too late how untrue that is.  We all have a purpose on this earth. 

Open your eyes to those around you, but also know that unless they want help you can’t force them to get help.  Show them every day how much they mean to your world and hopefully be able to show them how having them in your life makes it complete.

Remind those around you that if times get tough there are support groups and options for them. Encourage them to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 (US).