DEAR ABBY: Two years ago, one of my best friends took her life. I’d known her since we were in our freshman year. We dated for nearly a year while still in school before deciding to break up and remain as friends. She was much closer to me than that, though. She was like a sister. I loved her so much.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. ** ** **

Two years ago, one of my best friends took her life. She was much closer to me than that, though. She was like a sister. I loved her so much. How do I stop feeling like I could have done more? I don’t want to feel guilty anymore.

Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your dear friend. The feelings you are having after her death -- regardless of the circumstances -- are normal. Did we do enough? Could we have done more? Is it all right to go on with our life?