Men are nearly 4x more likely to die by suicide than women, yet they are less likely to seek mental health support.
This webinar, hosted by Samaritans on November 6, 2025, explored unique approaches to raise awareness and encourage open conversation through film, community building, and peer support. Panelists discussed social pressures and cultural expectations that create barriers to talking about mental health, and how they are working to create change. The webinar also explored challenges facing young men today, why suicide risk is increasing among communities of color, and practical strategies for supporting men and boys who are struggling.
Through community and connection, we can create spaces where seeking help is seen as strength, not weakness.
Funding for this webinar is provided by a grant received from the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.
Panelist Resources:
Follow Shattered Ice on Instagram to hear when new screenings are announced.
Mental Health Support Resources:
Findhelp.org: Find free or reduced-cost resources in your area.
Hey Sam peer support textline: Youth under 24 can text 439-726, 9am-12am (midnight) ET
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL): Call or text (833) 773-2445 24/7 to get connected with mental health support services, including therapy.
MassMen: Find mental health treatment or support
Speakers:
David Andrade, MSW
David Andrade is a Boston native from Jamaica Plain, is a proud graduate of Bunker Hill Community College, Lesley University, and Boston University. He currently serves as the Residence Hall Director for Rich Hall at Boston University and is a Mentor for The Posse Foundation, an organization that identifies and supports students with exceptional leadership potential through full-tuition scholarships and mentorship.
He is also the founder of BU’s Domino Club, now in its fourth year, which has become a cornerstone of inclusivity and belonging on campus. Outside of work, David enjoys card games, anime, fitness, and basketball. David strives to embody a commitment to leadership, learning, and building vibrant, inclusive communities.
Jake Miskin
Jake Miskin is the screenwriter and producer of Shattered Ice, a movie about a teenage hockey player navigating life after his best friend dies by suicide. Born and raised in Needham, MA, Jake graduated from Needham High School and he went on and played collegiate soccer at Springfield College. Jake graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. He is the founder of Nehoiden Street Films, an independent film company based in Boston, MA.
Anthony Thompson
Anthony Thompson is the founder of Follow Suit Mentoring, an organization which aims to give boys and young men the tools and confidence to reach their goals. Born in the mid-1960s in the Orchard Park housing projects of Boston, Massachusetts, Anthony was a standout basketball player in high school. He left the game behind in the 1980s and became entangled in the drug trade—a decision that led to life on the run and later time in prison.
After his release in the mid-2000s, Thompson committed himself to change. Recognizing his own past mistakes reflected in young men around him, he set out to be a positive influence. With a vision rooted in service and leadership, he dedicated himself to giving back to his community and now serves as a supervisor with the City of Boston Public Works.
Steven Karaiskos
Steven Karaiskos, Ph.D., is an educator, emotion scientist, and expert in grief and loss to suicide. He is also a dedicated advocate for suicide prevention, with over 25 years of experience across K–12 and higher education. A suicide loss survivor, his work is grounded in one core belief: that healing, learning, belonging, and thriving begin with relationships.
As the founder of Elpis Consulting, Coaching, and Community Building, Steven partners with schools, organizations, and communities to design restorative, inclusive systems that support
well-being and connection. He co-developed the SEL Roadmap with SeaChange Mentoring, providing international schools with a culturally responsive and developmentally grounded framework for social-emotional learning. He also teaches psychology at Lesley University’s Early College program, which empowers students traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
Steven previously served as Senior Director of Community Education & Outreach at Samaritans, Inc., where he redeveloped school training across Massachusetts, led a team of trainers, and expanded community partnerships. He now serves as Director of Programming at The Kita Center, home to Camp Kita, and leads peer support groups for young people navigating suicide loss.
