NEW YORK — After losing nine members of the NYPD to #suicide this year, the alarming number has our nation’s largest police department looking for solutions.
#Suicide has “absolutely has been an epidemic,” psychiatrist Jodi Gold said, and it usually happens in clusters.
“The only way to de-stigmatize is to talk about it,” she said.
#JamesDonaldson 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 oe 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
Why is this cluster happening within the NYPD now? Former NYPD Lt. Darren Porcher said often times there are cops that “just don’t want to come forward for help.” That, along with the fact that insurance changes within the department, can be leading factors, he said.
Another issue that needs to be addressed? When officers come forward, they usually get reassigned, Porcher said. When you change their status, it could change their day-to-day tasks, which can be problematic to the officer.
Officers should not be put on modified leave if they reach out for help because they likely won’t get the help they need, according to Gold.
Are there any telltale signs you should look out for? When you notice a change in behavior in any way: #socialmedia, eating, interaction. Reach out.
“People have to stay connected and reach out,” said Gold.
Recently, the U.S. government wanted to make the national hotline easier to reach. Once implemented, people will just need to dial 988 to seek help. Currently, the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline uses a 10-digit number, 800-273-TALK (8255). Callers are routed to one of 163 crisis centers, where counselors answered 2.2 million calls last year.
The government’s action comes as #suicide rates have increased across the U.S. over the past two decades, and dramatically so — by more than 30% — in half of U.S. states, according to the #CentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention. There were 45,000 deaths in 2016.
On their website, the NYPD lists numbers for their Employee Assistance Unit, Chaplain’s Unit, peer assistance program, and other resources.
The NYPD also recommends POPPA — Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance. It’s a “volunteer police support network committed exclusively to providing a confidential, safe and supportive environment for #policeofficers and retirees.” Their helpline is 1-888-COPS-COP (1-888-267-7267).
If you or someone you know is considering #suicide, contact the U.S. #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). It’s a free, 24/7 service that offers support, information, and local resources. You can also click here for additional hotlines within the tri-state area and the nation.
#Depression and #suicidal thoughts are often exhibited in many ways. Warning signs for #suicide can include, but are not limited to, talking about wanting to die; conveying feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or being a burden; and displaying extreme moods.
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of #suicide, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention advises that you do not leave the person alone, call a prevention hotline, and take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or #mentalhealthprofessional.
For more information on #suicideprevention, including additional resources and warning signs, you can visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s website.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
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:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
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
