I thought I should say more about my brother taking his life at 25. #SuicideAwareness
1-800-273-8255 1/8

Depression runs in my family. My father’s father and only sister took their lives as I wrote in Not For The Faint of Heart: Lessons in Courage, Power and Persistence (out in paperback 7/7, always ebook and audio) 2/8

Doug had a troubled young adult life; we know more now about drugs and alcohol and how they are used to self-medicate3/8

Even though I was a social worker, I could not help in the end. He sought help but not soon enough. He married and that was not enough. 4/8

He was handsome and funny and I loved him. He taught me about letting go; understanding in life that sometimes we all have events that brook no control. 5/8

I miss him although it has been many years. I watch for depression among family and friends; for early awareness; like any disease it is best to get help early. 6/8

My brother’s painful death taught me humility. In diplomacy, in teaching, in life. We do not have control over many things. But we must persist and try to prevail and try to help. 7/8

So go back to the first tweet and call if you need help or know someone who does so you know what you can and cannot make happen. And, take care as best you can in the tough world in which so many now live. 8/8