Dese'Rae L. Stage

%22VOICE AWARDS-2015%22 (20976499623)

Dese'Rae L. Stage is an American photographer, speaker, and suicide prevention advocate known for her work in mental health advocacy, particularly through her multimedia project, Live Through This. Stage's work focuses on breaking the stigma associated with suicide by sharing stories of survival and recovery.

Early Life and Education

Dese'Rae L. Stage grew up in a small town in the United States. Details about her early life and educational background have not been widely publicized, but her work in the arts and mental health advocacy suggests a deep engagement with these fields from an early age.

Career

Stage's career began in the arts, with a focus on photography. However, her personal experiences and struggles with mental health led her to use her artistic talents for advocacy. She is best known for Live Through This, a project she founded to document the stories of suicide attempt survivors through photography and personal narratives. The project aims to humanize the issue of suicide, providing a platform for survivors to share their experiences and connect with others.

Through Live Through This, Stage has interviewed and photographed hundreds of suicide attempt survivors, offering a unique insight into the complexities of suicidal thoughts and the importance of suicide prevention efforts. Her work has been recognized for its contribution to reducing the stigma around mental health and suicide, encouraging open conversations about these often-taboo subjects.

Advocacy and Public Speaking

Beyond her project, Stage is an active speaker and advocate for suicide prevention. She has presented at numerous conferences, workshops, and events across the country, sharing her insights on mental health, the power of storytelling, and the need for comprehensive suicide prevention strategies. Her advocacy work emphasizes the importance of community, support, and understanding in addressing mental health issues.

Awards and Recognition

Dese'Rae L. Stage has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions to mental health advocacy and suicide prevention. While specific awards are not listed, her impact on the field has been acknowledged by various mental health organizations and communities.

Personal Life

Stage is open about her own struggles with mental health, including her experiences with self-harm and a suicide attempt. This personal connection to her work adds a layer of authenticity and compassion to her advocacy efforts.

Legacy and Impact

Dese'Rae L. Stage's work has significantly contributed to changing the conversation around suicide and mental health. Live Through This has become a vital resource for suicide attempt survivors, mental health professionals, and the general public, offering hope and understanding to those affected by suicide.

Her efforts have helped to destigmatize mental health issues, encouraging more people to seek help and share their stories. Stage's work continues to inspire others to engage in mental health advocacy and to work towards a world where suicide is no longer seen as a taboo subject.