In the "On Q" documentary "Losing Lambert: A Journey Through Survival & Hope," writer/director David Solomon compassionately chronicles the experiences of several local families whose loved ones have committed suicide.

The focus largely settles on Lambert Hillman, a seemingly popular, content high school student who took his life in 1995. Since then, his mother, Kathy Fowler, has tried to help others in similar terribly sad circumstances. "Losing Lambert" explores not only the grief that results from a suicide but also the shame and stigma survivors feel.

The half-hour program airs at 8 p.m. on WQED-TV and is preceded by an "On Q" discussion at 7:30 p.m. and followed by further discussion at 8:30 p.m.

To its credit, the film also explores possible hope for the future in the form of a local research study that's attempting to determine if suicide results from a brain disorder -- research that might lead to preventative approaches for at-risk youth.

Suicide is not an easy subject, but Solomon handles the material with sensitivity. At the same time, "Losing Lambert" doesn't shy away from the reactions and preconceptions viewers bring to the topic.

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