I used alcohol as an anesthetic: it made pain go away. But most of us know about the progression of alcoholism, and how we slide down the slippery slope. There is a point when the alcohol itself begins to make us depressed, and what's dangerous about that is that it is hard to recognize, so we take more in an effort to feel better.
This certainly can create suicidal thoughts and medical professionals can address the issue better than I can. Perhaps this situation was a factor in whatever happened to the young man of your acquaintance... just thought I'd put this in print cuz you never know who it might help. Certainly in helping other, I help myself. That's the program at work!
Blessings from the Snowgoose.