Susan Schneider - Robin Williams' wife said Thursday that Robin Williams , 63, was struggling with depression, anxiety and the Parkinson's diagnosis when he was found dead earlier this week. Authorities said the actor-comedian's death was suicide.
She did not offer details on when Williams had been diagnosed or his symptoms.
Robin spent so much of his life helping others.
Robin spent so much of his life helping others. Whether he was entertaining millions on stage, film or television, our troops on the frontlines, or comforting a sick child — Robin wanted us to laugh and to feel less afraid.
Since his passing, all of us who loved Robin have found some solace in the tremendous outpouring of affection and admiration for him from the millions of people whose lives he touched. His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles.
Robin’s sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson’s Disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly.
It is our hope in the wake of Robin’s tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that occurs mainly in males over the age of 50 and causes uncontrollable shakes, tremors, and seizures.
Progression of the disease can eventually lead to thinking and behavioral problems. Mortality in those suffering from Parkinson’s is twice as likely as those not suffering, reducing the life expectancy of Parkinson’s sufferers tremendously.
Parkinson’s Disease is an idiopathic disease, meaning it has no known, specific cause.
Numerous studies have cited environmental factors, such as exposure to insecticides, head injuries, and farming as being closely associated with developing the disease.
Research has also found that there may be a genetic tie to the disease.
Parkinson’s Disease and Depression
The disease is crippling, sparking many of the depressive symptoms associated with it.
At the time of Williams’ death he was sober but dealing with depression and anxiety, as well as early onset of Parkinson’s, his wife’s statement goes on to read.
Receiving a diagnosis of an incurable disease such as Parkinson’s isn’t likely to help someone already dealing with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Curing Parkinson’s Disease
While there is no known way to prevent or cure Parkinson’s, treatment for it has led to longer lives for many of those afflicted by the disease.
Via: CBS Pittsburgh | Mirror.co.uk
