A mother has shared the devastating loss of her 19-year-old son, Leo, who died while at university, leaving his family in shock and deep grief. In the days before his death, Leo appeared calm and hopeful, giving no clear sign of the pain he was hiding. His death came without warning and changed his family’s lives forever.
Leo had told his parents he was struggling with what he described as mild depression. Only later did they learn that his distress had been far more serious. Like many young adults, he kept his deepest struggles private. His mother believes the mental health system, stretched and mostly remote, failed to fully see what he was going through.
Alongside their emotional loss, the family faced an unexpected and overwhelming burden. Closing Leo’s bank accounts, online services, and digital records became a long and painful process. With no central record of his digital life, each task required proof, paperwork, and repeated explanations, all while they were barely coping.
His mother says nothing prepares families for this “practical chaos” after a sudden death, especially when the person is young and their life exists largely online. She believes everyone, including young adults, should leave basic information to help loved ones in an emergency.
Today, Leo’s family is focused on honoring his memory. His mother hopes sharing their experience will encourage better mental health support and help other families avoid the same hidden struggles and painful aftermath.