Year: 1995 Source: Lifesavers, v.7, no.4, (Fall 1995), p.8 SIEC No: 19950458

A family therapist’s youngest brother, Tim, committed suicide years before. She kept the suicide a secret because she worried others would think she was from a bad family. The bad family theory has little weight as Tim had been successful & the remaining siblings have all been successful. Feelings of shame over a family member’s suicide have historical-religious roots. Tim probably suffered depressive illness before his death. Education about the factors leading to suicide is needed.