Monday, August 11, 2014

Proof That Depression Can Get Anyone - Goodbye, Robin Williams


Like most of the world, today I mourn the loss of the legendary Robin Williams. I honestly don't believe there's a living generation left untouched by this magnificent man. He was a comedian, an actor, a good man. He entertained and inspired us with movies ranging from Mrs. Doubtfire and Aladdin to Good Will Hunting and Dead Poet's Society. He was one of the funniest men to ever live, that may ever live, and a prime example of the old adage, "Those who smile the brightest are the saddest." I don't want to dedicate a long post to how his death will impact the perception of mental illness and psychological disorders, especially depression, because it feels wrong to use his death to advance an agenda, even one I believe is for good. But it seems foolish to ignore it too, because I believe he would want his death to mean something more. To compromise, I'll write only a short blog.

Even since I was in high school five years ago I have seen a change in how people with depression are perceived. While it is still far from perfect, people are slowly being more educated about what it means to have depression. It doesn't mean you're insane, it doesn't mean you're always sad, and it can't always be alleviated by anyone or anything. It is not something to ostracize people for. It is not a sign of weakness. It is very human.

My heart breaks for Robin Williams. If there are souls, if there is an afterlife, or anything of the sort, I hope it is good to him.


- C.A. Swaim