In this episode of Grief & Grit, we sit down with Lynn Handmacher Chanin, who lost her 16-year-old son Benjamin to suicide 15 years ago. With candor, strength, and grace, Lynn shares how she navigated the initial shock, the unbearable grief, and the long road toward healing.

Through Ben’s story, Lynn challenges us to change the way we talk about suicide. She discusses the importance of language — why we should say “died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide” — and emphasizes that mental illness is just that: illness. Not weakness. Not shameful. And not a crime.

We talk about how grief and joy can live side by side, how peer support saved her life, and how she found love again with someone who deeply understood her pain. Lynn is now a powerful voice in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, working with Survivors of Suicide, AFSP, and launching culturally relevant programs like Through a Jewish Lens.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by suicide or walking alongside someone who is.

In this episode, we discuss:

Remembering Benjamin for who he was — not just how he died

The language of suicide: why it matters

The power of peer support and finding your people

Surviving the aftermath of suicide loss

Parenting while grieving

Finding love again with someone who understands grief

Creating culturally relevant resources for survivors

Why silence can be dangerous — and how conversation saves lives

Resources Mentioned:

💛 If you or someone you love is in crisis, please dial 988 in the U.S. to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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💛 Reminder: If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.).