It’s not at all unusual for people to grieve for someone they never knew. Robin William’s recent death has affected so many of us.
From baby boomers who laughed along with him in Mork & Mindy, to the X Generation who were inspired by his words in Dead Poet’s Society, to today’s youth who loved him in Mrs Doubtfire, Robin Williams has touched the lives of millions.
The Carousel Psychologist Jo Lamble shares some reasons why we feel such personal grief over the loss of someone we never knew.
Robin Williams in Mork & Mindy.
1. Robin William’s death was so sudden, rather than following a long illness.
2. He was obviously in such a depressed state, which is not only incredibly sad, but seems to be in direct contrast to the Robin Williams we all saw on screen.
3. He made us all laugh and cry, no matter how old we are and it’s hard to believe that someone who was so funny and full of life felt so tortured underneath.
4. Children and adolescents can be especially affected since most of them are too young to have been untouched by loss, and they all felt a sense of knowing for Robin Williams.
Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society.
How to help:
- Allow the waves of grief to come and go in intensity. Allow yourself to feel the emotions and let them wash over you.
- Sit with your children and encourage them to talk about how sad they feel.
- Talk about depression and the importance of speaking out and seeking help.
- Ask those around you who appear to be suffering if they are ok.
Robin Williams in Mrs Doubtfire.
Mourning the loss of someone you’ve never met is ok. It’s ok to be upset, to be angry, or simply to have nothing to say at all. It’s all about feeling compassion – even from afar – and compassion is always a wonderful thing to possess no matter who it’s directed towards. Allow yourself time to grieve, time to heal – the same way you would deal with the death of someone you knew.
Have you grieved for Robin Williams or someone you didn’t actually know? Share your thoughts, experiences and tips below…
