Thank you for your post. I lost my brother to suicide 3 yrs this past April. I talk about it occasionally in the forums. When I'm answering a post that expreses intentions, I do mention this fact but rarely share the pain I've felt because I know the person suffering can't deal with hearing more pain.

I also lost a grandmother before I was even born. Many times for families, there's a great deal of varied emotion and a deep residue of shame. I decided I wasn't going to carry this burden of shame. I've told my girls what their Uncle decided to do. I think it's important to discuss it and educate the general public - not be afraid to bring the subject up. Unfortunately it's happening more with teens and they suffer alone with their feelings. I think schools should talk about this and families should make it clear there's a strong safety net if someone needs to talk. The only positive thing that's come from this is, through sharing my experience, I've been able to help others who feel desperate here at PC.