Like so many others, I am heartbroken to know that Robin Williams is no longer with us. No, I cannot say that he was my favorite actor or that I had seen every single movie that he had ever filmed; but I can say that my childhood would not have been the same without the laughter and life that he brought to our world. He was a genius, and he will be sorely missed by so many.
Depression is an illness that doesn't get much attention. Upon the breaking news of his death, social media became overloaded with opinions - some very disheartening. As someone who personally battles anxiety and depression, it was tough to read people's comments. For some reason, a lot of people believe that "you should just be able to get over it and move on with your life;" that "nothing in life can be that bad." How wrong these people are. Depression is a debilitating disease that completely alters your mind. It allows you to have zero control over your thoughts and your feelings. No matter how great your life may be, or seem to others, depression doesn't allow you to see that greatness.
It is easy for someone who has not experienced depression to say, "well, why didn't he just ask for help?" From personal experience, I know that asking for help is one of the hardest things that I have ever had to do. It took me months to speak up. When you are suffering from depression, one of your worst fears is to be a burden to others. Asking for help is not an option. You feel that everyone's life would be better off without you in it. Although I do not condone suicide, I do not see it as "selfish." As stated before, depression completely alters your mind. Because you feel that you are a burden and that you are doing a disservice to others by living, to those with depression, suicide can seem as an act of generosity. No, I have not made any attempts of suicide, but have I thought about it? Yes. This is the first time that I am coming out and saying that publicly.
Because I have reached out and gotten help, things are so much better. I am finding courage that I never knew I had. My weekly sessions with my therapist have helped me learn so much about myself and have taught me the power of opening up to others. My relationship with religion has grown so much. I was in such a dark place, where trust was a foreign word. Now, I trust the special bond that Jesus and I have. He knows the battle I'm fighting; He fought it before me; and for me. My family and close friends have been supportive and caring, and even people who I barely know, have reached out with support and care, as well. This life that I was blessed with is so amazing. I have always known it, but I think I just forgot for a while. Although my days are better, every day is not easy, and I know that I still have a long battle up ahead. However, I am optimistic and excited to fully love the life I was given again.
It is so important that we do our best to give empathy and compassion to others. There are things that many of us are experiencing that no one would ever know. Depression has such a stigma in our society; it is almost taboo. No wonder those who are dealing with it do not feel comfortable speaking out and asking for help. More education needs to be given on the subject. We need to start being uplifting and loving towards others. Life is hard for everyone, but I bet it would be a little easier if we were all nicer to one another. So, please do yourself, and others, a favor: educate yourself; don't judge a situation before knowing the entire story; and be kind to others and yourself.
Here is a Buzzfeed link that I think everyone should read:
"No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world."
Thank you, Robin Williams.
1951-2014
xx,
Lex
