Yahoo Lifestyle Suicide and depression: what you need to know
Getty Images
On Monday, August 11, the legendary and award-winning actor Robin Williams died at the age of 63.
His publicist released a statement that he had been battling severe depression, and the actor had reportedly checked into rehab earlier this summer.
At a press conference this afternoon, Lt. Keith Boyd of the Marin County Sheriff's Office announced that the preliminary results of the investigation are consistent with the initial reports that this was a suicide.
They underscore that the investigation is still ongoing, that the toxicology report has not yet been done, and the final cause of death is likely several weeks away. In light of these recent reports, we wanted to take this opportunity to focus on just how serious an illness depression is and how deadly it can be.
Depression is more than just feeling down or sad - it is a debilitating mental illness that can take on several forms, including major depressive disorder (an episode of severe symptoms which often reoccurs), persistent depressive disorder (depression lasting for at least two years), psychotic depression (symptoms of depression along with delusions or hallucinations), postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder (depression that mainly occurs in the winter months).
According to The Black Dog Institute, one in five Australians aged 16-85 experience a mental illness in any year and almost half (45 per cent) of Australians will experience a mental illness (like depression or anxiety) in their lifetime.
While there are many signs of depression - like persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleeping and eating patterns - one of the most serious symptoms is suicidal ideation, or thoughts of suicide. In fact, depression is the most common mental disorder associated with suicide.
The most recent Australian data (ABS, Causes of Death, 2012) reports deaths due to suicide stand at 2,535. This equates to a 10 year high, and seven Australians dying from suicide every day. According to Lifeline, for every completed suicide, it is estimated that as many as 30 people make an attempt.
The data also shows that almost twice as many Australians died from suicide, than in road related transport deaths (1,310 vs 2,535).
With rates of suicide increasing in middle - aged adults, it's vital to remember that depression is a serious, debilitating, and treatable mental illness. Pay attention to the signs and symptoms below if you think that you or someone you know may be suffering from depression:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
Source: American National Institute of Mental Health
If you can identify with several of the symptoms above, do not hesitate to talk to someone you trust and seek help. Tell someone immediately if you've been having suicidal thoughts - a friend, a doctor or you can call Lifeline 24 hours a day at 13 11 14. For more information on depression, including where to find help in your area, visit beyondblue.
