By: Aisha Boyce, MA
Yesterday, the comedian Robin Williams ended his own life. To some it comes as a surprise that this warm, enthusiastic and clever man had a history of mental health issues. There is, however, an extensive history linking comedians and depression. Other examples of comedians who have dealt with depression include Jim Carrey, Dave Chapelle, Russell Brand and you may know others who have battled similar demons.
In trying to cope with the pain that we are feeling, we may present a much brighter face to the world than what we are experiencing inside. This isn’t just comedians, people in all walks of life use humour as a coping mechanism. How can we identify the pain beneath the humour of friends, family and co-workers? Though each person experiences and expresses symptoms of depression differently, the following are a number of changes which may manifest in someone who is using a mask of humour to cope.
The most important resource that you can offer someone who is having suicidal thoughts or depressive symptoms is the help of a trained mental health professional. You, as the concerned friend, family member or co-worker, may also benefit from speaking to a mental health professional in order to better support your loved one.
Other crisis and/or mental health resources in Calgary:
By: Aisha Boyce, MA
