Losing one brother to suicide is an unimaginable grief. Our guest today, Dennis Gillan, lost two brothers to suicide over the span of 11 years. Dennis has transformed his misery into his mission and now runs a suicide prevention organization called Half a Sorrow Foundation. He speaks, advocates, and helps to lobby legislators on ways to improve access to mental health. 

Today he shares the story of losing his two brothers. As a junior in college, the last thing in the world that was on Dennis’ mind was death, but then he got a call from his sister to return home. Their eldest brother, Mark, had died by suicide. Dennis describes not knowing what to do with his grief or how to handle this loss. He did not talk about it. Instead he turned heavily to alcohol–often drinking with his younger brother, Matthew. They both tried to drown out their sorrows. Eleven years after Mark died, Matthew also ended his life. Dennis describes the impossible task of trying to pick up the pieces, seeking professional mental healthcare for himself, and his decision to finally share his experience with others.  When one family member dies by suicide it elevates the risk of suicide for the whole family. Learn why in our latest blog, “A Family History of Suicide.”