Source: The Wrap
No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world. – Robin Williams
Like so many of us, I was devastated to hear about the death of Robin Williams yesterday, August 11. As I struggle with my emotions, I feel an overwhelming compulsion to address church leaders.
Pastors, preachers, teachers, and leaders, I implore you: Please don’t reduce the loss of Robin Williams to a talking point about Hollywood ‘not having the answers’ or ‘not having anything to offer’ this weekend. Depression is a real disease that deserves real attention. It affects the churched and unchurched alike. Believers and unbelievers. Rich and poor. Famous and unnoticed. Too often we forget that actors are human – and that Christians are too for that matter – and that we all share in this human condition. That we’re all susceptible to pain. That we’re all in this together. That we’re all doing this for the first time. So, please, instead of using your platform (physical or metaphorical) to pass judgment, use it to champion hope. To tell those who hear you that they matter. That hope is real. That love is real. That it’s okay to need other people. That they can find help if they’re hurting. That they’re loved. That their story isn’t over. To stay alive.
If you would like help identifying and compiling local and/or national resources that may be helpful for those in your congregations that battle with depression or suicidal thoughts, please contact me directly. I will be more than happy to help you in any way I can.
(inspiration for conversation) 
Good stuff! I agree completely! Love ya, cuz.
Thank you, Brooke. Love you too!
I agree that a Depression is a real disease. Some people even have to take medicine like any other disease to help overcome it. Taking medicine for a fever or for depression does not mean you do not trust God.
It’s encouraging to see that at least one person will choose not to use his death as a platform, and will not deface this tragedy. Prayers are going to him, but especially his family. While they are left behind, they and the rest of the world need encouraging and uplifting. Depression does not discriminate, and neither should we. It’s a deadly disease for some, and the more we end the silence with talking about it, maybe the less suicide we shall see. Even if I’m not a preacher, etc., this is a good message, an I enjoyed it immensely. Thank you.
Thank you so much for the kind words. You’re absolutely right; and, I encourage you to continue to have conversations about mental health issues. Break the silence. Be a voice of hope.
I am a Christian n I struggle w depression. So did king David in the bible. In take medicine to help but the most help i get is from the Lord.
Depression is hard if your a Christian or not. I’m glad I have God to depend on.
We have to reach out for help. I’m so sad Robin didn’t.
Thank you for sharing your story, Paula. And thank you for being a voice of hope. It’s people like you – sharing your story, acknowledging the hardships and speaking hope – that help to make this a better world.