Robin Williams and Suicide Prevention

I usually write this type of article in September for National Suicide Prevention and in honor of my husband, but in light of recent events, I have decided to write it earlier than usual. There have been many articles and much controversy over the recent death of Robin Williams. Please be kind in your words and keep your negative thoughts in your mind. Words that are spoken can never be taken back. Having walked in the shoes of Robin Williams's family, there are several things that need to be remembered. He was and always will be a bright light for us to follow. He brought so much joy and laughter to people around the world. His laugh was infectious and genuine. From his Mork and Mindy days to The Crazy Ones, he strove to give us his best. His choice to end his life was just that-HIS CHOICE. Depression and it's cohorts are not to be misjudged. The best way to describe it is to close your eyes and think of yourself in a dark tunnel. There is no light, not even at the end. You cannot feel the walls, just the damp nothingness. There may be voices, but then again, silence will be there also. There is no end and no beginning. I have told countless people that those who chose to end their lives are not the real "victims" of suicide. The real victims are those that are left behind to deal with their pain and loss. As a family, we talk about my husband,, the father of my children. We talk of his life, his depression, his choices, and his suicide. There have been many tears and laughter. Sometimes, people are horrified when they learn of his death and others ask questions worthy of answers. Everyone deals with loss differently and in their own way. We choose to celebrate his life and teach others of his death. It is only by education and honest discussion, we are able to teach others and help others. Each one of my children have dealt with their father's choice. They are still dealing with it even after eleven years. I pray that those close to the Williams family will talk about him and help the family process his death in a loving and healthy way. Don't avoid words because you feel they are not right. Suicide, death, and choice are all appropriate and will be much appreciated. Remember that there are sorrows we cannot see in other people. There are dark corners of their hearts and love is not always enough to dispel the awful gloom. We can have the brightest light possible and still stand next to a person with mental illness; they may not see our light or know we are with them, but we can be that light for others. 1-800-273-TALK is a Suicide Prevention Lifeline.