Today the world sucks just a little more

[kmitch200]

Depression is not the same as being really bummed out about something.
Depression is when even when things are going well existence remains a burden you no longer wish to bear.

Very true.
I've known a few people that suffered from chronic depression and it cuts across ALL job titles and economic status lines.   

[alfsauve]

[might be a good place to post my FB status]

Depression, and it's twin demon anxiety, can affect anyone, not just celebrities or entertainers, but CEOs, day laborers, stay-at-home-parents, retirees, teachers, nurses, anyone. I can't help but wonder what difference it might have made if Robin Williams could have seen how much, as reflected on social media, he was admired, appreciated and loved. I think there is a fine line between being down, which is normal for everyone on occasion, and being clinically depressed. A small "push" either direction could have a big effect on someone tiptoeing that line.
The takeaway would seem to be, that we probably all have someone among our daily contacts who is close to that line. A small word of encouragement or appreciation, even just a smile or a nod of the head, might be the tipping point that makes the difference in their lives. I'm willing to bet that practicing that small act of kindness might even improve our own lives.

[ellis4538]

Billt...a person doesn't need a reason to be depressed, they just are.  If it could be explained, it could be treated better than w/meds.

JMHO


Richard

[Solus]

[might be a good place to post my FB status]

Depression, and it's twin demon anxiety, can affect anyone, not just celebrities or entertainers, but CEOs, day laborers, stay-at-home-parents, retirees, teachers, nurses, anyone. I can't help but wonder what difference it might have made if Robin Williams could have seen how much, as reflected on social media, he was admired, appreciated and loved. I think there is a fine line between being down, which is normal for everyone on occasion, and being clinically depressed. A small "push" either direction could have a big effect on someone tiptoeing that line.
The takeaway would seem to be, that we probably all have someone among our daily contacts who is close to that line. A small word of encouragement or appreciation, even just a smile or a nod of the head, might be the tipping point that makes the difference in their lives. I'm willing to bet that practicing that small act of kindness might even improve our own lives.

True, Afl.

Some time ago I was working for a school district and I was walking in the hallway of the admin building when and saw a principal of one of the  high schools who I knew from meetings and planning sessions.  He look very upset..to the point I felt I should ask him if he wanted to go with me for a beer and to talk...but did not..worried I might be intruding I minded my own business. 

He left and went home ans spent the rest of his life sitting in his car in a closed garage with the engine running.

I don't think it likely he would have gone with me or that it would have changed anything...but it would have cost me little to offer. 

I'll not be worried about "propriety" in that situation again..ever again.

Don't feel blame or guilt but will remember I might have made a difference.

[PegLeg45]

My heart does go out to his family.

I understand the thought process involved, and it always saddens me to think of a person who feels that there is no other option or way to get over depression.

He was a comic genius and a pretty good actor and I liked many of his movies, but never really clicked with the "hyper active" nature of his stand-up stuff.
(no, I'm not bashing a poor dead guy.... I truly am saddened by his death)

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