WWL-TV's Paul Murphy contributed to this report
Suicide is a delicate subject that's often difficult to talk about.
But many people are speaking out about the depression Chris Roberts' family says led to his death.
The Roberts family shared a statement through Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto, writing with great sadness:
"...he passed away this evening after a long battle with depression. The family asks for your prayers and support during this difficult time."
Jefferson Parish Councilwoman Jennifer Van Vrancken shared her thoughts on depression.
"I don't think there's a person who is in our community, who has not had some sort of personal impact with someone struggling with depression," she said.
She said the community and government need to get past the stigma and have more access to treatment.
"We've got to do a better job of mental health services in our community. It really is just something that I don't think we have a good safety net. I don't think we have all the services that people truly need," said Van Vrancken.
It was just last month that Medical Watch reported a rise in cases of depression in Louisiana. CDC numbers show Louisiana had the second biggest rate of increase in depression in the nation over five years. LSU Health developmental psychologist Dr. Anthony Speier says behavioral treatment doctors, or telemedicine, are now in primary care clinics statewide.
RELATED: Depression on the rise in Louisiana, CDC says
"You can't ignore it. When you go in annually (to your primary care doctor) just say, 'You know, I'm not feeling the way I would like to feel," Dr. Speier said in January.
And that is for any mental health problems, including addiction.
Signs of serious depression are constant sadness. You lose interest in things you like. There are also changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, behavior, and self-esteem. And of course, thoughts of suicide need to be treated.
Here a list of treatment options for mental health, addiction and depression, even if you don't have health insurance.
SAMHSA U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: National Help Line 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Metropolitan Human Services District (Orleans), 24 hour crisis line: 504-826-2675
JPHSA behavioral health mobile crisis line (Jefferson): 504-832-5123
LSU Addiction Psychiatry Clinic: M,W,F 1-5pm / 2003 Tulane Ave: 504-962-6106