Running to Heal: Steve Andrzejewski's Fight Against Suicide Stigma
It's devastating to think about the numbers, but the reason why we have those numbers is because we can talk about these things.
When tragedy struck Steve Andrzejewski's family with the loss of his son Ryan to suicide, he found solace in an unexpected place—running. In this heartfelt episode of '40,000 Steps Radio', host Christopher Heimerman sits down with Steve to discuss how he navigated the choppy waters of grief and turned his pain into a mission to raise awareness about suicide prevention.
Steve's morning runs with his husky became his sanctuary, offering a space to cry, scream, and heal before the world woke up. These runs were his lifeline during those first agonizing months after Ryan's death. But Steve didn't stop there; he and his wife committed themselves to advocating for better mental health resources and support systems. As the Chief Commercial Officer of Lyn Health, Steve sheds light on the importance of addressing behavioral health as part of treating chronic conditions.
This episode isn't just about one man's journey through loss; it's a call to action for society to treat mental health with the seriousness it deserves. From the emotional toll on families to the role of physical activity in coping with grief, Steve and Christopher tackle the tough conversations that many shy away from. They also delve into the broader challenges of discussing mental health openly and the administrative hurdles that can make accessing care so difficult.
Whether you're grieving, supporting someone who is, or just looking for a deeper understanding of mental health issues, this episode offers valuable insights and a sense of community. Tune in to hear Steve's powerful story and join the movement to break the stigma around mental illness.