Famed actor and comedian Robin Williams' death on Monday has reignited discussions about suicide and depression, as advocates look into a new hope of recommencing suicide prevention endeavors.

Recent reports indicate an outpour of sympathy and sadness over the loss of award-winning actor Robin Williams who had reportedly committed suicide by hanging himself.

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Experts believe that his death can be turned into something positive for the world as it shines a new light on the lingering societal problem of suicide.

"He was such a charismatic and beloved figure, that if his death can galvanize our society to act instead of just grieve, it will be a fitting memorial to him," Columbia University's Jeffrey Lieberman told USA Today.

Lieberman is a professor and the chairman of CU's College of Physicians and Surgeons.

According to those close to him, Williams was suffering from severe depression prior to his death.

He had also been in and out of rehabilitation centers because of alcohol and substance abuse, which are two of the major companions of the mental illness. Other signs include sleeping troubles, and loss of appetite.

According to 30-year-old suicide survivor Paul Banuski, Williams' wholesome and likeable image in the entertainment industry could make him the ideal symbol for mental illness in order to help other people understand the disease better and show compassion to those who suffer from it.

Banuski, who battled alcohol addiction and depression, attempted to kill himself in March but miraculously survived.

The young man explained that many people view depression as a "moral failing" as opposed to as a disease or medical issue.

Records indicate that suicide rates in the United States have stayed high for many years as government show over 39,000 incidents annually.

According to National Institute of Mental Health Director Thomas Insel, suicide has taken double the number of lives as homicides and even more than AIDS, prostate cancer, or car accidents.

In spite of these figures, Insel cited that this persistent problem receives very minimal attention. He said that people should realize that depression is as "life-threatening" as other incurable diseases.

TagsRobin Williams, Robin Williams suicide, Robin Williams death, suicide rates US, mental illness US, Robin Williams depression