A man and woman died in an apparent murder-suicide in Jackson County over the weekend, authorities said.

Deputies were called to a home on County Road 131 in the Bryant community late Saturday.

Joey Wayne Hollis and Kathryn Nichols were both found dead, according to the sheriff’s office. Chief Deputy Rocky Harnen said investigators believe 36-year-old Hollis fatally shot 48-year-old Nichols before turning the gun on himself.

Hollis is originally from Talladega, Harnen said, but had been living with his girlfriend in Bryant.

Further details haven’t been released.

Here are warning signs to watch for if you fear someone is suicidal and resources that can help those thinking of harming themselves or who fear a loved one might harm themselves.

WARNING SIGNS

· Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself.

· Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means.

· Talking or writing about death, dying, ''ending the pain'' or suicide.

· Feeling hopeless.

· Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking.

· Feeling trapped - like there's no way out.

· Increasing alcohol or drug use.

· Withdrawing from friends, family, social support and society.

· Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time.

· Experiencing significant mood changes.

· Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life.

· Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge.

HOW TO HELP

· Ask the person directly if he or she is having suicidal thoughts, has a plan to do so, and has access to lethal means.

· If you think the person might harm him- or herself, do not leave the person alone.

· Take seriously all suicide threats and all past suicide attempts, even if he or she minimizes your concerns.

· Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

· Be willing to listen and be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life or whether suicide is viewed by some as a sinful, selfish or angry act. Respect that suicidal feelings are most likely related to ending emotional or psychological pain.

· Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support. Take into account other trusted friends, family members or allies who can be a part of a supportive team.

· Don't dare him or her to do it.

· Don't act shocked. This may translate as criticism or judgment and weaken trust between you.

· Don't be sworn to secrecy. Acknowledge that all suicidal risk is to be taken seriously and firmly and gently explain that you are seeking support.

· Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

· Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

· Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

Resources in Alabama

· Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition

· Crisis Center, Inc. (Birmingham) Phone: (205) 323-7777 Kids Help Line: (205) 328-KIDS (5437) Teen Link: (205) 328-LINK (5465) Senior Talk Line: (205) 328-TALK (8255) Hours of Operation: 24/7

· Crisis Services of North Alabama (Huntsville) Phone: (256) 716-1000 Toll Free: (800) 691-8426 Hours of Operation: 24/7

· Lifelines/Family Counseling Center of Mobile Phone: (251) 431-5111 Toll Free: (800) 293-1117 Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (CST) Monday-Friday

Sources: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and The Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition