Apr 28, 2016 2 min read

Dear Annie: Tragedy has struck our family. A cousin killed himself on Easter Sunday. I never thought my cousin would do this. He worked with troubled teens and their families. He was outgoing and strong, and helped others through their own tough spots.

A few years ago, his son died by suicide. Since that time, my cousin struggled with depression and a host of other things. Apparently, the pressure and depression overcame him that Sunday. Yet in his everyday life, he was surrounded by people who might have noticed the signs of what was happening had they known what to look for. Sometimes we get so caught up with our own issues that we forget to pay attention to what’s going on around us. Please help your readers to recognize the signs of someone struggling, and to help that person before it’s too late. Suicide doesn’t solve the problem — it only creates devastation for those left behind. — One Left Behind

Dear Behind: Not everyone who chooses suicide shows signs that others would pick up on.

Chances are, your cousin never got over the suicide of his son, a horrible tragedy that undoubtedly contributed to this one, no matter what face he put on for everyone else. Here are some signs to watch for: Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself; looking for a way to kill oneself; talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live; talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain; talking about being a burden to others; increasing the use of alcohol or drugs; acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly; sleeping too little or too much; withdrawing or feeling isolated; showing rage or talking about seeking revenge; displaying mood swings.

If you or someone you know is in danger of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you think someone is in immediate danger, do not leave that person alone. Call 911 and stay until help arrives.