Robin Williams' death sheds light on depression

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- From the silver screen to the local stage, Robin Williams had the power and the quick wit to light up a room. Behind the scenes, the comic genius struggled with depression and addiction.

Williams was found dead at his Northern California home Monday in an apparent suicide by asphyxiation. A representative said Williams had been battling severe depression lately.

Psychiatrist Dr. Michael Gitlin, the director of the mood disorders clinic at UCLA, said depression is a serious illness that alters your ability to function.

"Alterations in sleep, in appetite, in energy, in concentration - all of those are part of depression and they're not inherently part of being sad," Gitlin said.

One in 20 Americans over 11 years old reported a depressive episode in 2005, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those 40 to 49 years old are more likely to experience depression.

Williams spoke candidly about his struggles during a 2006 interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer.

"I'm fine now, I'm OK, and then...next thing you know, it's not OK. You're standing at a precipice and you look down, there's a voice, and it's a little quiet voice that goes, 'Jump.' The same voice goes, 'Just one.' For someone who has no tolerance for it, that's not a possibility," Williams said.

Williams had just completed rehab for alcohol addiction when he did the interview. While he openly talked about his battle with alcohol and a cocaine addiction in the 1980s, his deep struggle with depression was not as well known.

ABC senior medical contributor Dr. Jennifer Ashton says the two are separate illnesses that can feed off each other.

"Of course, depression can lead to addiction and addiction could lead to depression. But they can be two parallel disease processes, and when one or both are out of control, they can spiral precipitously downhill very quickly," said Ashton.

Williams underwent open heart surgery in 2009 to replace two valves and regulate his heartbeat. Experts say major heart surgery often leaves patients with depression.

Ashton says one thing we can learn is that depression needs to be taken seriously.

"Let's not let another person die in vain. Let's increase our awareness and understand that when a person is profoundly depressed, they need one to one medical attention," said Ashton. "It's a true medical emergency, and the first step is getting that person help."

Conventional treatment ranges from anti-depressants to cognitive therapy. There's a wealth of research to show that a combination of both is very effective.

While paying tribute to Williams on Twitter, some celebrities also issued a serious message to fans.

Lady Gaga posted, "Rest in Peace+Laughter Robin Williams. Perhaps this tragedy will shed light on the seriousness of depression. You made us all so so happy."

Jimmy Kimmel wrote, "Robin was as sweet a man as he was funny. If you're sad, please tell someone."

If you or your loved ones are feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts, there are resources available.