In his memoir "Darkness Visible," William Styron emphasizes the profound and often incomprehensible nature of the pain experienced by those suffering from severe depression. He illustrates how this deep anguish can be so overwhelming that it may lead individuals to consider suicide as a means of escape. Styron argues that without a widespread understanding of this emotional torment, efforts to prevent suicide will remain inadequate.

The author highlights the need for greater awareness surrounding the experience of depression, as many people cannot truly grasp its severity without having gone through it themselves. Styron's insights strive to foster empathy and compassion for those battling this illness, advocating for a recognition of their struggles to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.