This past week media, both mainstream and social has been focusing on the death of Robin Williams. The morbid side of our curiosity
Robin Williams was one of the most talented entertainers that our current generations had the opportunity to embrace. The first time I remember seeing him was when he appeared in a guest appearance on Happy Days. From there he went on to his own sitcom, several successful movies and a career that entertained us for over forty years.
Those in the entertainment industry live a very difficult life. We expect so much more from them, yet they like us face the same every day pressures as every one of us face. But they have an added pressure- that is their fame. Tasks like going to the grocery store, shopping at a mall or a simple walk on the beach for them can become an event where they are bombarded by fans and the paparazzi. Some celebrities handle the fame much better than others, some struggle. For Robin Williams we have no idea how he dealt with his success.
Suicide is an ugly word. No one dies from suicide. The cause of death is a far more underlying condition such as depression or a terminal illness. None of us can understand the how or the why any more than we can understand why bad things happen to good people.
I did not know Robin Williams. From what I have read he seemed to have an issue with depression during various points of his life. Depression is a very misunderstood condition. The CDC estimates that nearly one in ten Americans suffer from depression. Some people control their depression through prescription drugs, some use meditation, some use counseling but many go untreated. There are many factors that can contribute to depression. Treating depression is not as simple as saying buck up, smile and move on.
The life of Robin Williams was cut far too short. I will remember him for the times the laughs he provided and his improvisational genius. The Williams family deserves their privacy and time to grieve during this very difficult time, their loss is far greater than ours.
Peace to you Robin Williams.
