In a recent episode of the Secured podcast hosted by Mike Matranga and Mike Monsive of ASAP Security Services, the tragic case of a transgender student named Nicks Benedict from Oklahoma grabbed national attention. Benedict, a 16-year-old who identified with he and they pronouns, died by suicide after a bullying incident at school. The media coverage highlighted the LGBTQ+ aspect of the case, raising questions about why similar incidents don’t receive the same attention.
The conversation delved into the broader issue of bullying in schools, emphasizing that suicide among youth, regardless of gender identity, is a significant concern. The hosts pointed out that while Benedict’s case made headlines due to their transgender identity, many other suicides resulting from bullying go unnoticed by the media.
#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
The discussion shifted to mental health resources in schools, drawing attention to the lack of guidance and support for educators dealing with increasingly diverse responsibilities. With tight budgets and an ever-expanding list of tasks, administrators and teachers are stretched thin, impacting the quality of education and student support.
The hosts highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health resources over reactive measures like police presence in schools. They commended initiatives like Texas A&M University’s comprehensive telehealth program for students, contrasting it with the struggles faced by K-12 schools in providing similar support.
The conversation concluded with a critique of voucher programs and their potential to exacerbate inequalities in education, especially for underfunded public schools already facing financial challenges. They emphasized the need for a holistic approach to address mental health issues, bullying, and educational disparities in schools, calling for greater support and resources for educators and students alike.
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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
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