re: An old friend's husband committed suicide

Many suicide attempts are a window to undiagnosed mental illness.

Many substance abuse issues are self treatment of undiagnosed mental illness.

We have a boatload of undiagnosed depression which can lead to suicide.

These are real diseases with treatment and management plans that can work if the person does not succeed on the attempt.

People need to understand that they are not alone and these feelings will pass if you give it time.

The constriction of thought that occurs with a suicide attempt is unrelenting. Unfortunately, many use firearms and the completion rate is very high. Not many of those get a second chance.

Listen for the call for help. “I’m worthless. I want to die”

Young people asking about death could be a warning sign. Take any statement regarding self harm seriously. You could help a relative, friend, neighbor, co-worker, etc.