With the passing of Robin Williams yesterday, we lost a huge personality we grew up with. We lost somebody who seemed to bubble over with laughter so much that he had to share the extra with the world. But that was obviously not the case. We know that he struggled with depression, and it looks like yesterday, heartbreakingly, he lost that battle. But this isn’t about Robin Williams because we should remember him for how he lived, not for how he left this world.
It’s about mental illness. The stigma, the reality, and the truth of struggling internally while putting on a brave face. You probably know somebody – or a few people – who suffer from depression or anxiety, but you might never know it because they can put on a mask to get through the day. Maybe you are hiding your own struggles from your friends and family.
But those people are your support network, and this isn’t something you can do by yourself. If you’re not okay, talk to someone. If you’d feel better talking to a stranger, that’s fine, too. Call one of these places; that’s what they’re there for.
Just don’t try to do this by yourself.
The power of brain scan images in understanding mental illness is remarkable. They bridge the gap between subjective experiences and objective data, offering invaluable insights into conditions that were once shrouded in mystery. Witnessing the physical manifestations of mental struggles brings a profound sense of empathy and reinforces the urgent need for destigmatization and support. These images serve as a poignant reminder that mental health is just as vital as physical health, highlighting the importance of accessible, empathetic care for all.
Do you resort to any medications when you cannot cope with your mental state alone?
Good post
Thank you so much for posting this. I’m so thankful we live in a time when that stigma is breaking down, even if it’s slowly. My boyfriend is struggling with crippling depression, as are my brother and a good friend. It took a long time for my bf to start talking about it; in fact, I had no idea for several years, he was so good at masking it. Now that he’s broken down that barrier, he is starting to get better.
Hi Marlene, thanks so much for sharing your personal experience with depression. I can’t agree with you more – the stigma needs to end! I’m glad you boyfriend is finally talking about it and getting better!