'We are not ashamed of how he died': Widow shares the anguish of an unforeseen suicide

A grieving widow has poured out her heart over the shock loss of her husband hoping to raise awareness of the factors leading to suicide.

Andrew Bryant, a gastroenterologist for more than 20 years, showed no obvious signs of depression, but last week the Brisbane father of four took his own life.

In a heart-wrenching letter, Susan Bryant said her husband hadn’t been sleeping well but that was no cause for concern as he had never been a great sleeper.

“Some of you may not yet know that Andrew took his own life, in his office, on Thursday morning," she posted on Facebook earlier this week.

“Andrew had never suffered from depression.

“I didn't see it coming. He was a doctor; he was surrounded by health professionals every day; both his parents were psychiatrists; two of his brothers are doctors; his sister is a psychiatric nurse - and none of them saw it coming either.”

The grieving Brisbane mother said she didn’t want it to “be a secret that Andrew committed suicide”.

“If more people talked about what leads to suicide, if people didn’t talk about as if it was shameful, if people understood how easily and quickly depression can take over, then there might be fewer deaths.

“His four children and I are not ashamed of how he died.”

After the emotional letter was shared on social media, Dr Bryant’s daughter added her own touching tribute.

“Dad was the best father, he loved and was so proud of my brothers and I. He loved life, especially singing, dancing, classical music and cycling,” she wrote.

“He was funny, witty and exceptionally smart. He worked extremely hard as a doctor, and he cared so much for his patients.”

If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467, or Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36.