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The death of the beloved comedian and actor, Robin Williams, shocked many. He took his own life on August 11, 2014. His publicist said he had been battling severe depression as well as addiction as of late and lost the battle. Sometimes, the people who gift us with happiness are the ones that can’t find it themselves.
Every 13 minutes, someone dies from suicide. It is among the top 10 causes of death in the US. Sometimes, I think we forget that depression can affect anyone. Depression doesn’t just happen to a specific group of people. It can happen to someone who seems well loved–to someone who appears to be happy.
Currently, about 34,000 people commit suicide each year. That number is about twice the amount of deaths caused by homicide. According to the World Health Organization, depression will outpace cancer, stroke, war and accidents as the world’s leading cause of disability and death by 2030.
It can be hard to identify when a loved one is depressed, let alone when the loved one has progressed to suicidal tendencies. Individuals with depression or who appear suicidal may talk about feeling hopeless or guilty. They may pull away from loved ones, give away possessions, or complete other tasks that are geared toward getting their affairs in order.
So what can be done? If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression, seek immediate help. Depression doesn’t occur because of a lack of coping skills, personal weakness or a character flaw. It’s something that can happen to anyone.
If you or a loved one suffers from depression or seems suicidal, don’t be afraid to seek help. Reach out to a loved one or one of the resources below when you are in need.
Listed Below are some hotlines in North Dakota:
BISMARCK
211 Help-Line
Mental Health Association
in North Dakota
24 hours / 7 days
2-1-1
1-800-472-2911
FARGO
Suicide Line
24 hours
(701) 232-HELP
(701) 232-4357
GRAND FORKS
Northeast Human Service Center
24 hours
(701) 775-0525
Dakota Challenger 