“Man up.” “Be tough.” “Boys don’t cry.” These are just a few of the messages men often hear when they express sadness, hopelessness or depression. Over time, these responses can suppress emotional expression and discourage men from seeking help — leading to lower rates of diagnosed depression but higher rates of suicide.
#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
June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time devoted to breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, promoting open and honest conversations and encouraging help-seeking behavior. It is a reminder that mental health matters for everyone, regardless of gender. Too often, men are taught that expressing vulnerability is a sign of weakness, when it is a sign of courage and strength.
Dealing with emotions can be difficult, but believing you should not feel certain things or ignoring them because of your gender is not only unhealthy, but it is dangerous. Neglecting mental health can lead to serious consequences, including increased risk of suicide, substance abuse, aggression, violence and social isolation. If left unaddressed, these struggles can impact relationships, job performance and overall wellbeing.
Anxiety, fear of judgement or simply not feeling safe are just a few reasons why men avoid opening up about their emotional struggles. However, no one should face those challenges alone. By creating supportive, judgement-free environments at home, in the workplace and in our communities, we can help more men feel safe enough to speak up and seek help when needed.
The Jason Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention of youth and young adult suicide through education and awareness programs, all provided free of charge. No one should feel they have to suffer in silence. Visit JasonFoundation.com to access life-saving resources, materials and locate the nearest JFI Affiliate Office near you.
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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 jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org 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
