The co-pilot of Germanwings Flight 9525 did not live his life in the shadows. He was in and out of treatment, and he had a history of depressive symptoms and of being unable to work for periods of time. His behavior was of concern to many, he had spoken of suicide, his computer searches told a dangerous and worrisome story — and he was out there living and working among his family and friends.

Those family and friends as well as those involved in his treatment likely were concerned — at least, we hope so. However, the failure to face the laws head-on and challenge the need for safety over the need for confidentiality was a fatal mistake for him and the 149 others killed in the crash.