ALSTEAD, N.H. — The community is mourning the loss of 13-year-old Josiah Michael Dwinell, who died by suicide on March 12, just eight days after celebrating his birthday. His family has described the loss as “truly heartbreaking,” and his death has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from those who knew him.
Josiah’s aunt, Shaena Stebbins, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and shared further details about the struggles Josiah faced in the months leading up to his death. According to Stebbins, the young teen had been enduring persistent bullying at school, which she believes contributed to his tragic decision. She also revealed that Josiah’s biological mother had passed away five years ago, and he had been adopted by his grandmother, whom he called “Mimi.” Stebbins said that Mimi fought tirelessly alongside Josiah to support him and get him the help he needed but struggled to get the necessary attention for his mental health challenges.
Stebbins said in a Facebook post, “He was being bullied at school and on the bus. Not one person outside his home tried to help him.” She described how Josiah had visited the hospital several times, where his Mimi would stay by his side, trying to get him the support he desperately sought, but his mental health needs were often overlooked. “My nephew decided after a bus ride home that he couldn’t handle the bullying anymore,” Stebbins shared.
Josiah’s passing has left a deep void in his family’s hearts. On the GoFundMe page, Stebbins remembered him as “an amazing brother, son, nephew, and all-around young man who meant so much to everyone who knew him.” She continued, “Josiah brought light and joy to our lives, and his absence leaves a hole in our hearts that can never be filled.”
As the family processes this unimaginable loss, they are determined to honor Josiah’s memory and ensure he receives the farewell he deserves.
Susan Stearns, the Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness-New Hampshire (NAMI-NH), shared advice for families on how to help support loved ones who may be struggling with mental health issues. “It’s important to have conversations, but don’t assume a middle schooler has more knowledge than they do,” Stearns advised. She emphasized that parents and guardians should ask direct questions if they are concerned about a child’s mental health. “It’s a myth that you’re going to put an idea into someone’s head. The reality is that asking directly is the best way to engage someone in that conversation.”
The loss of Josiah highlights the ongoing need for open, honest dialogue around mental health, especially for young people facing challenges like bullying and isolation. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.
As Josiah’s family continues to grieve, they hope his story will encourage others to be more mindful of the struggles children and teens may be facing and to offer the support and care that might prevent further tragedies.
The post Family Grieves Loss of 13-Year-Old New Hampshire Teen After Tragic Death first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
