To the Editor:

The world continues to react to the tragic news of the loss of one of our most iconic and talented entertainers, Robin Williams. Perhaps surprising to some is the statement that at the time of his death, Robin Williams had been battling severe depression. It seems hard to comprehend how someone who was capable of bringing so much joy and laughter into the world could be suffering from a mental illness that would rob him of his life.

In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), depression affects 5-8 percent of adults in the United States. This means that about 25 million Americans will have an episode of major depression this year alone, but only one-half receive treatment. Without treatment, the frequency and severity of these symptoms tend to increase over time. Left untreated, depression can lead to serious impairment in daily functioning and even suicide, which is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. Researchers believe that more than one-half of people who die by suicide are experiencing depression.

As devastating as an illness like this can be, there are treatments that can help. But all too often, those who suffer fail to seek treatment, either because they don’t know where to turn for help, or because of the stigma of admitting they have a mental illness diagnosis.

At NAMI, we say that “it’s time!” It’s time that we make mental health services available to those who can’t afford it. But even more important, it’s time that we start talking about mental illness and the devastating toll it is taking on our communities. These diseases have a biological basis, like any other disease. And though our understanding of the biology which leads to symptoms like depression, or anxiety or psychosis, is far from complete, we have the opportunity to save lives by engaging in a conversation that communicates our support, understanding, and respect for the individual. They are not their diagnosis. And with our help, they have hope for a life full of dignity and respect that reaches its full potential.

Out of tragedy, sometimes comes the spark for change. Robin Williams, with his humor and his generosity, tried to make the world a better place. By all of us taking a stand to improve the availability and access to mental health services, in particular in our local communities, we make the world a better place. By sharing our own stories of a life affected by mental illness, we give others the courage to seek help and treatment. It is time.

NAMI Mercer is a local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness serving the greater Mercer County area. Our free programs offer education, support, and advocacy for individuals and their families affected by mental illness. Contact us at helpline@namimercer.org or by calling (609) 799-8994.

Karen Marquis, PhD,

President, NAMI Mercer Board of Directors

Sally Osmer, LCSW,

Executive Director

NAMI Mercer, Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville