RECENTLY Hollywood actor and comedian Robin Williams died.
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It was well covered by mainstream media and social media outlets; with tribute shows and specials, spread across every television network.
However, the one thing that was not put under the radar, was why he died.
The same thing arguably occurred when Philip Seymour Hoffman died in February of this year.
Once again, he was praised as a talent and his life was celebrated.
I am not attacking the integrity of these men, what I am concerned about, however, is the almost normative stigma being associated with suicide and mental illness in general.
When a high-profile celebrity or athlete takes their own life, people are genuinely saddened about the talent lost, and not the proliferation of suicide cases.
Suicide and depression are a major issue arguably facing many developed nations.
It is for this reason that the government needs to start allocating more money to the budget towards mental health.
It also needs to introduce campaigns that make it easier for people who need help, to get the help they need and deserve.
Suicide is not an everyday event that we should accept, just as depression is not something that people should try to sweep under the carpet.
If you need help, be brave and seek help, and if you notice strange behaviour in a family member, friend or work colleague, assist them to get help or if need to be, get them help.
— MICHAEL MURPHY,
Thurgoona