Robin Williams dead at 63

[grandmoon]

ROBIN Williams is dead. The 63-year-old actor’s body has been found in a possible suicide, Variety reports. RIP Robin

[polksaladallie]

http://mpegmedia.abc.net.au/rn/podcast/2014/08/bst_20140813_0615.mp3

If this doesn't work, google radio national breakfast for today and the segment will be there.

This link works.

[crosbystills]

Thanks Allie.

[polksaladallie]

Why would Fry say that?   It can't be too debilitating for him then.

[crosbystills]

I think it does have quite an effect on him - he's tried to kill himself more than once. 

I believe it's a case of the highs outweighing the lows, in his mind. The onset of mania fires up his imaginaton, gives him seemingly boundless energy etc, which is all quite seductive. I remember him saying he won't even take lithium, which won't cure the condition but does reduce the severity of the mood swings.

After a bit of googling I see that he might be now taking medication: http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/jun/05/stephen-fry-attempted-suicide-bipolar

It's interesting that he says "I have a condition which requires me to take medication"  without confirming that he actually takes it.

[shepherdsrule]

crosby is right, the cure can sometimes be worse and more confronting than the disease...at least it feels that way to the afflicted.

It may make them more centred and calmer, but the feeling of  relaxation and the removal from the norm can also trigger a feeling of 'no control' and that is often more overwhelming and scary that the actual effects of the affliction.

It is a kind of catch 22, take the mediaction and feel nothing, don't take it and feel too much.

He died young, but I think he experienced and gave more than many who will live to twice his age.

RIP Robin.

[**tay**]

As stupid as this sounds, I was absolutely devastated when I heard this, I just loved this guy. Growing up watching his movies and his interviews, he was just such an amazing person, it's going to take me ages to get used to him being gone. 💔