The late actor Robin Williams was understood to have been in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease before his apparent suicide, according to his wife Susan Schneider.
Ms Schneider made a statement in which she said that the Good Will Hunting star Williams was known to have been struggling with depression, anxiety and the onset early stages of Parkinson’s disease when he was found dead at his home earlier this week.
Authorities in Northern California where Mr Williams had lived have confirmed that the 63-year-old’s death was caused by suicide. Ms Schneider did not give any further details on Williams health problems, she did not say when he had been diagnosed or how his symptoms were.
Ms Schneider also said in her statement that: “Robin’s sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson’s disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly.”
Mr Williams had recently acknowledged his periodic struggles with substance abuse and depression which prompted him to enter a rehab facility.
Ms Schneider told reporters that those who loved Williams are taking solace in the outpouring of affection and admiration for him. “It is our hope in the wake of Robin’s tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid,” she said in her statement.