TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL)--The apparent suicide of comedian and actor Robin Williams is bringing renewed attention to depression.
The Florida State University deputy police chief is shares his battle with clinical depression. Major Jim Russell was diagnosed in 2010.
Major Russell says he went to his primary care doctor following a divorce.
He says he was experiencing the signs, including what he calls inexplainable feelings of hopelessness and being very tired.
He says today he practices self-care and has learned how to manage the depression. He's outspoken about mental health, and has ridden his bicycle for 24 hours straight promoting suicide prevention.
He says if you think you have a mental illness, it's something that needs to be talked about. Major Russell says don't be afraid to get help.
"One of the deadliest things about suffering with mental illness is people remain silent about it," said Major Russell. "They're afraid of the stigma. They're afraid of the repercussions with work, with family, with life and friendships and that's something that has to stop."
Some of the local resources include dialing 2-1-1.
There is also the National Suicide Prevention Hotline available by calling 1-800-273-8255.
