Release date: September 19, 2022
In the U.S., we have started to make real progress towards decreasing juvenile suicides by promoting mental health and reducing the stigma around suicidal ideation. However, practical concerns remain. What should a kid do when they are feeling suicidal? What should a parent, teacher, caring adult, or even a friend do when a kid they know is in crisis? I know it takes substantial resources and a concerted effort to put the correct services in place and then to make the public aware of those services. My guest to scratch the surface of the work state and federal agencies are doing to decrease juvenile suicides is Arizona’s Suicide Prevention Program Manager, Joshua Stegemeyer. The passion, experience, and innovation that Joshua brings to the position is inspiring, and I am honored to have him on to bravely share his story and to provide practical information on how you can plug in for assistance or to become a part of the larger movement. More information about Joshua and a link to Arizona’s suicide prevention website can be found below.
Biography of Joshua Stegemeyer
Joshua Stegemeyer is from the Great Pacific Northwest and a native of Portland, Oregon. Joshua didn't stay there long, moving 9 times before High School. His early travel turned into wanderlust as a young adult and at the age of 22, he joined the Army to see the world. He accomplished that goal, traveling to 34 countries in Europe and Asia, as well as 34 US States during 12 years in the Army. Joshua deployed twice to Afghanistan and once to Iraq, serving in various leadership roles and participating in tactical and strategic operations in both theatres. Combat operations ultimately took their toll and Joshua was medically retired for Post-Traumatic Stress and bodily complaints. Getting life back on track after exiting the Army required extensive therapy. Joshua's therapeutic journey led him to believe he could help others the way he had been helped and he used his GI Bill to earn a Master of the Arts in Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, as well as Clinical Counseling, from the Brandman/Chapman University System in Irvine, CA. Joshua currently serves as the Arizona State Suicide Prevention Program Manager and lives in Phoenix, AZ, with his wife Samantha, a talented teacher and musician.
Links
Arizona’s suicide prevention hub
