At what point are there recognizable signs a person might be a danger to themselves or others or need mental health treatment? It often is a difficult question to answer, and particularly problematic to address when that person in question is a grown adult.

That was the case with John Patrick Bedell, the 36-year-old Hollister resident who suffered for years with mental illness and resisted getting mental health treatment, who walked to the Pentagon entrance Thursday and opened fire, injuring two police officers before being killed by return gunfire.

From what he has seen since news broke about Bedell, the director of mental health treatment in the county said it would have been “very difficult” to fully understand his issues and intentions before what happened last week.

“With somebody that functions as highly as Mr. Bedell, it would be very difficult to be aware of what his intentions are,” said Alan Yamamoto, director of the county’s mental health department. “He was well enough equipped. He presented himself well to most people.

Bedell’s family for years had tried to get him mental health treatment, but he was in denial about his problems and growing paranoia and did not get the necessary help. “To force somebody that’s an adult into involuntary mental health treatment is a difficult situation and it should be, because people have civil liberties and those need to be respected,” Yamamoto said.

 It is important that anyone who suffers from drug addiction, alcoholism or any type of psychiatric disorder receive help. If you are unsure where to access this help or what type of help to get, call the helpline listed above.