Robin Williams

I genuinely can’t remember the last time a celebrity death seemed this profoundly tragic. It’s always sad when a beloved actor passes away, because we usually have a special connection to their work. Even if we didn’t know them, it still feels like someone you know dying.

Multiply that tenfold for Robin Williams, the star of countless shows and movies that all age groups grew up with. For my generation it was Mrs. Doubtfire, Hook and Aladdin, my parents’ was Mork and Mindy. I was caught off guard by his unexpected dramatic talent in movies like One Hour Photo, and there was nothing the man couldn’t do.

But again, this is compounded further by the fact that Williams took his own life. One of the funniest, warmest men in Hollywood struggled with severe depression, and it consumed him in the end. It goes to show you that depression can strike anyone, and even the most hilarious and bubbly among us might be suffering in secret. Sadly, Williams use of comedy to insulate himself against his own issues is far from uncommon, and we’ve seen it time and time again in Hollywood.

I know the common refrain here is to “get help” if you’re feeling depressed as Williams was. And you should. But more importantly, GIVE help, if you know someone who may be depressed for one reason or another. Sometimes it’s too hard for them to ask, and they’re just not going to get better on their own. Check in on a struggling friend or family member today, and let them know you’re there. And then keep being there.

Rest in peace, Robin. Hopefully you at least knew how many lives you touched.