Robin Williams, who committed suicide Monday, has forced the nation to face the misunderstood disease of depression.  

But Williams is not the only celebrity to fall to this crippling mental illness.  Many other artists have attempted to mask the internal battle they have with depression with the outward genius and creativity they show the world. 

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Kurt Cobain, Alexander McQueen, Sylvia Plath, Vincent Van Gogh, and Virginia Wolf.  These are just a few famous names of artists who suffered from depression and eventually committed suicide.  

Since ancient times, people have romanticized the notion that there is a link between creativity and depression, genius and mental illness, celebrity and madness.  But is there any basis to the connection?  

The neuroscience to prove the links exist is young.  Researchers and psychologists are slowly making progress toward linking creative expression and mental illnesses like depression and bipolar disorder.

In the case of Robin Williams, his high-energy comedic performances have often been compared to episodes of mania suffered by people with bipolar disorder.  Manic states are highs in emotion and energy, often followed by a sudden crash of sadness and depression. 

Williams himself wondered whether or not his bouts of high energy and deep sadness were due to bipolar disease, but confessed to long-time friend Carrie Fisher that he didn't think bipolar disorder had anything to do with it.

Many creative types involved in expressive and creative arts such as music, poetry, visual arts, and performance point to performing in a sort of 'manic state.'

Reports state that artists are able to externalize the pain of their depression through their work which is admired by those who do not suffer from mental illness.

But mental illness is not unique to artists, as studies show that 1 in 3 people will suffer some sort of depression or anxiety attack at some point in their lives.  

Robin Williams is only the latest artistic soul to fall to the dark cloud of depression which many others have also masked well behind a veil of laughter, creativity, and genius.

It is hoped that despite succumbing to his inner demons, Williams will be able to put a spotlight on mental disorders which affect millions.

TagsRobin Williams, depression and genius, Robin Williams suicide, artists and depression, genius and suicide