Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
Comedians bring joy in others. Robin Williams, one of the finest comedian had depression & committed suicide. How can a person whose job was to make others laugh be depressed?
Imagine how much pressure you would feel to constantly be funny, to be a comical "genius" and never hit a wrong note. You could easily find yourself in desperation, trying to reaffirm that you are good at your job (which, even in comedy, could be a job like any other) - because if you fail, the entire world will tout your failure. The entire world is watching, and you must be perfect or else you'll be reading about how "far you've fallen" for months.
Comedy could also have been an escape from the turmoil going on inside. But depression doesn't discriminate, and it doesn't follow logic or reason. Even someone with the whole world to live for could be overpowered by the anguish that depression and bipolar disorder create.
Depression also isn't about others. Whether you help others on a daily basis in some way or your actions have an effect only on yourself, a mental illness or disorder isn't "moved" by the extent of your reach. You could work hard to make others happy while being utterly despondent yourself. It's a terrible thing to endure.
"Laughter is the mask we wear to hide our pain"
People that know me think I am a very funny happy person. I hide behind my jokes. It is a shield because as has been proven many times over when you let your real self show people scramble.
They don't want to deal with depression.
I think I posted this somewhere else on here, so many comedians deal with Depression. Read up on John Candy, Chris Farley, john Belushi, Louie Anderson.