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Wow. I want to wait until all the details are figured out, but my initial reaction is - if you're going through some stuff, know that there are people out there willing to listen and help you through it.
there is no mention of depression. Regarding depression, who are those people who want to listen? I have found it that instead of being helpful people use it as a "I told you so" moment.
The parent poster doesn't mention depression either. It would apply just as well to addiction or other afflictions.

And I'm sorry if you don't have people in your life that would listen to you. But I know I wouldn't be the person I am today if I hadn't gotten help from those around me. Your unfortunate experience shouldn't stop people from trying to get help they might need.

I’m sorry you’ve had that experience. Mental health is still such a taboo topic; for everyone who can respond with empathy, there are just as many who don’t know how to talk about it or otherwise react constructively.
Given that's true, we all know those around us are not well equipped to help, and therapist are so impersonal, it does often seem pretty pointless...
rumors are drug overdose, will be interesting if its accidental vs suicide and whether opioids are the cause

sad either way RIP

Could you elaborate on the "whether opioids are the cause" part?
Huge amount of the opioid crisis is due to unintended overdose from fentanyl in the drug supply that was not meant to be there. Lots of people accidentally dying because their cocaine, xanax, or other pills have too much fentanyl.

https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/o...

If it is opioids and it was not intentional, then it was reckless behavior. To me it seems as if we are trying to preemptively blame the substances for what is the user's fault. I can already see the headlines and pushing the war on drugs even more.

What do you think is ought to be done, if anything? I am leaning towards education, harm reduction policies, etc.

Decriminalisation or legalization would mean no fentanyl in the heroin supply and therefore many fewer unnecessary deaths.
Yeah, I am all up for decriminalization/legalization. My issue lies with people who has not given up on prohibition after it repeatedly has been proven to be a failure. :)
Not just decriminaliation/legalization. Would also need a pretty decent amount of regulation to ensure dealers aren't serving impure products. Cutting with fentanyl is done as a cost saving technique. Due to it's potency at low doses, dealers can get away with selling less product for the same cost since users will get just as high.
For sure. My definition of legalisation also includes policing people who sell one thing and call it something else. Just like with regular goods.
The New York Times is also reporting that it was due to a drug overdose. If you, or anyone you know, needs help, know that today is a great day to get sober. There's a meeting near you with other addicts who can help you start a journey to recovery.

For AA meetings: https://www.aa.org/

For NA meetings: https://www.na.org/

Don't leave your loved ones like two of my parents left me! The journey is hard, but your family will love having you around for a full and happier life.