On August 11, 2014, the world lost one of its brightest lights to suicide, beloved comedian and actor Robin Williams. As both a tribute to him and as a way to encourage people to speak out and to ask for help rather than taking that final step, designating the anniversary of that tragic day "Ask for Help Day" would both keep mental health issues on the public's mind and encourage those suffering from depression or other mental illnesses to reach out for the help they need.
We need a greater awareness that being mentally ill is not a reason to be ashamed; it is a form of illness, and needs treatment just as other forms of illness such as the flu or any other treatable disease. There is nothing wrong with being sick, and asking for help is preferred to silently suffering, by far.



