I have frequently heard the statement "I always knew Robin Williams was in serious pain" since learning the news of the legendary actor passing away. I can relate with others' thoughts on this subject, as I often felt the same way about the late, great actor. Despite openly admitting his mental suffering and depression to various media outlets throughout his career, little stood in the way of his demise. How could a man so talented and adored be so isolated with pain so unbearable that life was not worth living anymore? If so many people could sense something was wrong with him, why didn't anyone do more to prevent his and others' self destruction?
Ultimately, when witnessing another's emotional pain, it is best to acknowledge these feelings with kind, nonjudgemental and supportive means of offering help. Emotions serve as an important survival function to communicate, motivate and validate what goes on in our inner and external environments. Unfortunately, westernized society is quick to turn away from these painful emotions.
If there is anything to learn as a society from Williams' personal tragedy, we should derive the fact that we as humans need to be more supportive toward each other during times of severe emotional pain. Those suffering with emotional and personal turmoil cannot ignore the need to seek help. Accepting that the pain can and will become manageable is the first step in finding out that a life worth living exists.
Jacob White
Fayetteville
Commentary on 08/29/2014