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James Donaldson on Mental Health – Stop treating suicide as a taboo topic, urge mental health experts
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KUALA LUMPUR: The stigma surrounding suicide needs to be dispelled amid rising suicide rates in Malaysia, said a psychiatrist.
Dr Hazli Zakaria said conversations about suicide should no longer be taboo, pointing out that anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can experience suicidal thoughts.
“These thoughts are symptoms of underlying conditions.
“Just as some people lose their sense of smell and taste when they contract Covid-19, thoughts of suicide are often a symptom of depression and other mental health issues.
“These conditions can be treated if we take measures to help the affected person.”
He also highlighted the importance of addressing the stigma faced by people contemplating suicide or those who have survived suicide attempts.
People who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts often behave differently from their usual selves, he said.
Other signs to watch for, said Dr Hazli, include changes in routine, sleep patterns and appetite, as well as social withdrawal.
He added that people struggling with these thoughts often conceal their intentions well, which is why it is crucial for those who notice to approach them with genuine care and concern.
“Sometimes, just inviting them out for a drink or an outing can make a big difference,” he said.
Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan, dean of the Faculty of Psychology and Social Sciences at Cyberjaya University, also stressed the importance of reaching out to the right people for help. “Sometimes, it may not be family or friends but counsellors, trainers or teachers,” she said, adding that there are also suicide hotlines available for support.
This comes as the number of suicides in Malaysia continues to rise, with a reported total of 4,440 cases between 2019 and 2023, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi earlier this year.
#James Donaldson notes: Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes. Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use. Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.#http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book, #CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy
In 2019, there were 609 cases recorded, followed by 621 in 2020, 1,142 in 2021, 981 in 2022 and 1,087 last year.
Those suffering from mental health issues or are contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours, or email [email protected]).
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James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at [email protected] and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
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