It can be especially difficult when someone you know commits suicide.
You might be searching your memory for hints, for things you did and said, for things they did and said, trying to find answers.
You may not find answers - there may not have been anything apparent, and no way for you to know or intervene.
They did not do it to punish you, or to make you feel guilty.
In fact, they probably knew the pain they would cause you, and it just added to their burden... but they still couldn't see another way out.
It's not a failure on your part. It's not your fault. It can be very hard to tell if someone is truly suicidal.
Do try to talk to other people - maybe other friends or family affected. You may feel very guilty, but it's not your fault. No-one is to blame.
There are support groups for suicide survivors which offer counseling and help bring many of the issues associated with suicide out into the open.
They can also help survivors reach out to their own friends and family who may be feeling similarly and thus begin the healing process.
UAB students can also contact the Counseling Center.