A Chance to Heal

The death of actor and comedian Robin Williams two weeks ago was a tragedy in so many ways. Certainly his fans are mourning the loss of the talent he contributed to the entertainment industry, but his family members and friends are grieving the most because they actually knew the man behind the performances and shared their personal lives with him. We extend our deepest sympathies to them. News stories and social media postings over the last several days have questioned how someone so popular and gifted could have reached such a state of despair that he would seek to take his own life. Few reports have acknowledged that neither fame nor skill are barriers to emotional suffering. Few have explored the very real nature of deep psychic pain—that it can be a threat to anyone battling mental illness and is particularly likely when the co-occurring disorder of addiction is present. Mr. Williams had publicly addressed his continuing battles with depression and addiction. Articles published this month by Scientific American and the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) explain that 60 percent of people who have attempted suicide are struggling with both addiction and mental health issues. In addition, the SAMHSA report cites that among people with co-occurring disorders, most at-risk for suicide are those between the ages of forty-five and sixty-four; Mr. Williams was sixty-three. Without a broader understanding of the physiology involved in addiction and chronic mental health conditions, and the complete hopelessness that can lead to suicide, the social stigmas and general confusion that still surround these issues are likely to continue. Following, from three voices affiliated with Central Recovery Press, are very personal explanations of the impact of suicidal ideation on the individual who feels there is no other way out and on the loved ones left behind, as well as tools for recovering from this potentially fatal despair. There is hope, and there is healing, and with more education and understanding we can all help each other. Sincerely yours, Mel Pohl, MD, FASM, Medical Director, Las Vegas Recovery Center Johanna O’Flaherty, PhD, CEO, Las Vegas Recovery Center