R.I.P. Robin Williams.

Dubbed the “funniest man alive” in 1997 by Entertainment Weekly, it was difficult for fans and loved ones to understand what could drive such a good natured man to take his own life. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the star suffered from many mental health diseases that possibly triggered his tragic decision.

Robin Williams struggled with Lewy body dementia, a variety of dementia closely associated with Parkinsons disease and, according to court records, a likely factor in the cause of Robin Williams suicide.  Lewy bodies is a progressive form of dementia which commonly leads to hallucinations and severely impairs a victim’s ability to function on a day to day basis.  The symptoms of Lewy body dementia often overlap with those of Parkinson’s disease, with medications for Parkisons often leading to severe side effects. This Friday, authorities formally ruled Robin William’s death a sucide. A toxicology report discovered two antipressents and caffeine in his system at the time of death. A closed bottle of Seroquel, a drug used for treatment of schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorders was found at the scene of death, prescribed a week before he died.

–Alexandria Tribble

Alex hopes news of Robin William’s illness brings awareness to mental health care. Follow her @Y_iOuwta