When Mental Illness Turns Deadly — A Family Tragedy and the Warning Signs We Missed

Do you stay when someone you love is spiraling — or do you walk away?

Sarah and Finn sit down with Alex Konicke, author of Evil Among Us, to talk about a family tragedy no one saw coming — and the mental health system that failed them. Alex's older brother Zach struggled with addiction, mental illness, and escalating behavior that culminated in murder and arson. This is a raw conversation about codependency, boundaries, community, and what happens when love isn't enough to save someone.

Key Takeaways

• Mental illness often looks like addiction — and both get missed until it's too late
• Families can enable and protect out of love — and still end up in danger
• Calling 9-1-1 creates a record — and can be the difference between intervention and tragedy
• Grief isn't linear — it spirals, and everyone processes it differently
• Community, therapy, and sharing your story are essential for survival after trauma

Guest Bio

Alex Konicke is the author of Evil Among Us, a memoir about love, loss, mental health, and survival. After losing his mother in a family tragedy involving mental illness and violence, Alex became an advocate for mental health awareness and the importance of boundaries in crisis situations. He lives with his wife and stepchildren and continues to share his story to help others facing similar pain.

Resources and Links

Book: Evil Among Us by Alex Konicke — available on Amazon

Website: alexkonicke.com

Connect with Alex on Facebook and Instagram

Notable Quote

"Just because someone is crazy doesn't mean they're dumb — and just because you love them doesn't mean you're safe."

— Alex Konicke

Connect With Us

Dr. Sarah Michaud, Author of Co Crazy

Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube

Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com

If you loved this conversation, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown — and share it with a friend ready to reclaim their voice and leave confusion behind.

Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery — with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up — we're leaving CrazyTown.

This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you're struggling, please seek support from a licensed professional.