Betsy Stephenson shares her journey of child loss, grief, and healing after suicide. A heartfelt story of resilience, hope, and love after tragedy.

Suicide loss, grief, and healing after the death of a child are among the most painful human experiences. In this episode of 7 On Sundays™, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye sit down with writer and advocate Betsy Stephenson, author of Blackbird: A Mother’s Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide.

With raw honesty and strength, Betsy shares her heartbreaking journey of losing her child to suicide and the ongoing process of navigating life, love, and resilience in the aftermath. This conversation explores:

• The realities of suicide bereavement and child loss

• How grief changes family, identity, and relationships

• The role of advocacy, writing, and truth-telling in healing

• Finding light and resilience after unimaginable loss

This is Part 1 of a two-part series offering compassion, understanding, and hope for anyone affected by suicide. Whether you are a grieving parent, family member, or friend, Betsy’s story reminds us that while grief never ends, healing is possible.

Topics Discussed

- Betsy’s experience of losing her son to suicide

- Writing as a tool for healing and reflection

- The emotional process behind *Blackbird*

- Navigating grief and honoring one’s emotions

- The role of community and support in healing

- Finding meaning and connection through storytelling

- Encouraging open conversations around mental health and suicide

 

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:17 A Parent's Grief: Losing Charlie

01:02 Interview with Betsy Stephenson

01:56 Charlie's Story and the Impact of Suicide

04:05 The Importance of Honesty in Grief

07:53 Charlie's Hidden Struggles

10:39 A Mother's Efforts to Help

21:57 Charlie's Final Days

27:09 The Reality of Suicide for College Students

30:21 The Importance of Prevention and Support Systems

33:24 The Role of Diagnosis and Professional Help

46:13 The Impact of Toxic Masculinity on Mental Health

51:50 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Resources Mentioned

- Blackbird: A Mother's Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide: https://www.amazon.com/Blackbird-Mothers-Reflections-Grief-Suicide/dp/1964721296 

  A memoir by Betsey Stevenson offering an intimate and powerful reflection on her journey through grief and healing.

 

- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)  https://afsp.org  

  A national organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.