Robin Williams' Death: Illicit Drugs and Alcohol Did Not Play a Role
Robin Williams' tragic death stunned Hollywood this past summer.
According to initial police reports, Williams' cause of death was declared asphyxia caused by the late actor hanging himself with a belt on Aug. 11. However, it was still unclear as to whether drugs or alcohol played a part in the actor’s suicide given his history with substance abuse.
WATCH: Robin Williams' Final ET Interview
The official Coroner’s report released Friday afternoon now confirms that Williams was indeed sober at the time of his death. Only 4 substances were found in his system — two antidepressants and two forms of caffeine.
Following his death, his wife Susan Schneider released a statement as to what she believed led to the beloved comedian's suicide.
"Robin's sobriety was intact," she wrote, "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."
PICS: Zelda Williams Gets Beautiful Tattoo in Memory of Father
The Coroner’s report confirms this statement and also noted a recent increase in paranoid behavior leading up to Williams’ suicide. For example, he placed several wristwatches in a sock because was very concerned for their safety the night before his death.
Also in her statement, his wife made this wish: "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."
This is a cause Williams' 25-year-old daughter Zelda has also taken up. Showing off a gorgeous tattoo she got in memory of her late father, she shared this powerful message:
"Mental illness is often misunderstood & misrepresented, but that's starting to change. Let's end the stigma. Mental health IS as important as physical health, & whether there are visible signs or not, the suffering is real. It can affect EVERYONE. So please, let's help stop the misconceptions & support those who need our help. Healing the whole starts with healing minds."
NEWS: Wayne Brady 'Blown Away' By Support After Revealing His Battle With Depression
And Williams' death has, in fact, increased the overall conversation about depression and mental illness, causing more celebrities to openly discuss the once-taboo topic.
Earlier this week, Wayne Brady opened up about his own struggle with depression in a remarkably candid interview.
Related Gallery
