New Hampshire family 'heartbroken' after 13-year-old Josiah Dwinell dies by suicide
Aunt of Josiah Dwinell claims bullying and 'overlooked' mental health led to tragedy
The community of Alstead, New Hampshire, is in mourning following the death by suicide of 13-year-old Josiah Michael Dwinell on 12 March.
The tragedy occurred just eight days after his birthday, leaving his family to grapple with what they describe as a "truly heartbreaking" loss.
Josiah's aunt, Shaena Stebbins, revealed that the teenager had been the victim of persistent bullying at school and on his bus journeys, a situation she claims was tragically misunderstood by those outside his home.
According to family accounts, Josiah had faced significant personal hardship, including the loss of his biological mother five years ago.
He was subsequently adopted by his grandmother, known as "Mimi," who fought alongside him against the harassment.
Reflecting on the systemic failure to protect him, Stebbins noted: “He went to the hospital on numerous occasions where his Mimi sat by his side holding him, trying to get him the help he was seeking, and his mental health was overlooked, and everyone outside his home said he was seeking attention.”
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to honour the memory of a boy they describe as an "amazing brother" and "all-around young man."
The campaign has already raised over $23,000 to cover funeral costs and support the family's healing process.
Susan Stearns, of the National Alliance on Mental Illness-New Hampshire, emphasised the need for direct intervention and urged families to be a calm presence, acknowledging grief.
She advised: "If you are concerned that someone might be considering suicide, then you want to ask that directly."
Stearns also highlighted the importance of debunking myths surrounding mental health conversations. She noted that it is a myth that asking about suicide puts the idea into someone's head, stating that it is actually the best way to engage someone in that conversation.
The Dwinell family continues to seek privacy as they process their loss and work to honour Josiah’s memory with the farewell they believe he deserves.