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Editor:

Perhaps the death of the comedic icon Robin Williams will shed some light on the plight of those who suffer with mental illness.

Studies show that depression is the leading cause of suicide, especially among those who also use drugs and/or alcohol to self-medicate. I have written before to extol the virtues of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) to educate people about mental illness and the fact that stigma is the biggest barrier to getting help.

NAMI’s national website nami.org can shed light on programs and services available to anyone — for free. As the president of the local NAMI-Westside affiliate, I urge you to contact me (203-7179) or leave a message at our NAMI office (990-2292).

Nobody deserves to suffer in silence. There is help. There is hope.

Marilyn Salzman

President, NAMI-Westside