Parkinson's Disease May Have Impacted William's Depression

By Sarah Nolan on August 20, 2014

In a statement released Thursday following the sudden death of actor Robin Williams, his wife revealed that he had been recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

“Robin spent so much of his life helping others. Whether he was entertaining millions on stage, film or television, our troops on the front lines, 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.”

The beloved actor was found dead in his home Sunday of an apparent suicide by hanging. He was 63. Results of the toxicology report will not be available for two to six weeks.

Williams, who had previously battled drug and alcohol addiction in the 70s and 80s, had been sober for twenty years before he entered a substance abuse center in 2006 for alcoholism.

Although he was sober,Williams had been battling depression as of late. According to his publicist, he had partaken in the 12-step program at a facility in Minnesota on July 1.

It is believed that the recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s may have contributed to his severe depression. Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS news chief medical correspondent, explained that the physiological and psychological factors attributed to Parkinson’s usually results in depression.

“Patients can become increasingly anxious, fearful, and depressed at the prospect of enduring what may be a progressively debilitating disease.”

Courtesy of Yahoo Images  

According to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, depression among people with the diagnosis is common, so common in fact that it affects up to 60 percent of those individuals.

“Researchers have found that people with Parkinson’s who were depressed had more trouble with daily activities, and were more likely to begin medication for motor symptoms sooner than those without depressive symptoms.”

Actor Michael J. Fox, who also suffers from Parkinson’s disease, took to twitter Thursday to express his pain: “Stunned to learn Robin had PD. Pretty sure his support for our Fdn predated his diagnosis. A true friend; I wish him peace.”

Thousands took to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to express their shock as well, including countless devastated stars.

Minnie Driver: “My Heart’s broken. Robin was a beautiful, kind soul. Can’t bear that he’s gone. So incredibly sorry for his family.”

Anna Kendrick: “O Captain! My Captain! Rise up and hear the bells. Rise up, for you the flag is flung, for you the bugle trills.”

Conan O’Brien: “Absolutely stunned to hear the news about Robin Williams. It’s unimaginable to me that we’ve lost such a genuinely funny and sweet man.”

Steve Martin: “I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul.”

Matt Damon, who won the academy award with Williams in 1997 for their roles in “Good Will Hunting,” wrote the following heart felt statement:

“Robin brought so much joy into my life and I will carry that joy with me forever. He was such a beautiful man. I was lucky to know him and I will never, ever forget him. I truly hope the people in the media can find it within themselves to give his family some privacy during this horrible time.”

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences tweeted Tuesday a touching image from the movie Aladdin, in which Williams had voiced the Genie. The image shows Aladdin and the Genie embracing each other with a caption that read, “Genie, you’re free.”

Courtesy of Yahoo Images  

Amidst the death of the actor loved by millions, the most heartbreaking news of all came this past Sunday when it was revealed that Williams had sent a caring video message to a fan of his earlier this year who was suffering from cancer.

Vivian Waller, 21, was diagnosed with lung, bowel and liver cancer in January of this year and created a bucket list that included meeting Williams. Since she was unable to travel to the United States, a friend was able to come into contact with him. His response perfectly illustrates his remarkably genuine soul.

“Hi Vivian, it’s Robin Williams here saying ‘Hey girl what’s going on down there in New Zealand’ sending all my love to you, Jack and Sophie. Mark this off your bucket list. I said hey, hey, hey what’s going on!? It’s alright, it’s alright, it’s alright … I’m just channeling Matthew McConaughey. Much love to you baby.”

Since his death last week social media has erupted with support for those suffering from depression. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. If you or a loved one you know has suicidal thoughts or behavior please do not hesitate to contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

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