Suicide Prevention Info Needed in Wake of Robin Williams' Suicide

Written by Wendy Ann Mitchell

For those struggling with depression and their families, news of the suicide of comedic genius Robin Williams came as a shocking, somber reminder of the struggles they face everyday.

The Associated Press reported Monday that Robin Williams died of an apparent suicide. According to a report by Mill Valley Patch, Marin County, Calif. officials said, “Williams, 63, a noted film and television actor, appears to have killed himself via asphyxiation, coroner’s officials said. He was found unconscious and not breathing shortly before noon at his home in unincorporated Tiburon. He was pronounced dead shortly after noon.”

Williams’ publicist said he suffered with depression for years. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported suicide due to a “current depressed mood” was a factor in 41.5 % of males and 42.7 % of females in 2009. Suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2011, with 39,518 self-inflicted deaths that year.

Williams’ death is a somber reminder that suicide can strike old or young rich or poor. It is important for family and friends to recognize warning signs that could mean someone is at risk for suicide. The following is provided bySuicidePrevention.org:

>Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

>Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun

>Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

>Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

>Talking about being a burden to others

>Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

>Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

>Sleeping too little or too much.Withdrawing or isolating themselves

>Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.Displaying extreme mood swings

If you or someone you know shows any of these signs, get help as soon as possible by calling the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255).

For more information on suicide prevention from the National Institute of Mental Health, click here.

For more information from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, click here.

Photo credit: Suicide Prevention Lifeline