A View From Above on Things That Make The World Go 'Round
James Donaldson on Mental Health – Focus on mental health every month
Posted on by
READ LATER - DOWNLOAD THIS POST AS PDF >> CLICK HERE <<
Small steps can lead to big progress in mental health. In America today, approximately 1 in 5 Americans is suffering with a mental health issue; and approximately 1 in 25 adults is experiencing a serious mental illness that substantially interferes with one or more major life activities. Left unaddressed, the negative impact will increase.
The time to act is now. As CEO of Belmont Pines Hospital, my staff and I have the privilege of serving many members of our community who are experiencing some of the most challenging times of their lives — mental illnesses that are often invisible to the casual observer in ways that physical illnesses are not. As a behavioral health industry, we must build capacity to serve the need by attracting new providers, expanding our workforce, investing in prevention and reducing barriers to care.
Since its inception in 1949, May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. This observance provides an opportunity for reflection and action to address the stigma preventing individuals from getting the care they need.
The good news is that there is hope and resources for recovery. Today, positive outcomes are not only possible, they are experienced every day. Like chronic physical illness, mental illness can be diagnosed and effectively managed. Individuals who were once in despair can go on to live their best lives. This is highly rewarding and one of many reasons I chose to work in this field.
In addition, at the end of April, our nation witnessed a historic achievement regarding suicide prevention. The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention was published alongside the first-of-its-kind Federal Action Plan which makes the strategy more impactful. The Federal Action Plan directed by The White House places accountability for progress at various departments including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Health and Human Services and others. We look forward to achieving meaningful advancements in suicide prevention under this strategy.
#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
What else can we do within our communities to recognize the signs of mental health challenges and assist those in need of care and treatment?
?–? Listen and show understanding: If you suspect a loved one is struggling, encourage them to seek professional help.
?–? Share the Crisis Response number 988, a 24 / 7, free and confidential text, chat and talk support line. Military veterans may press ‘1’ for dedicated support. Learn about the implementation of the 988 crisis line in
your community this summer.
?–? In case of an acute emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Suicide is often preventable when people at risk receive the support that they need.
?–? Our schools should encourage students to pursue careers in mental health fields, whether through nursing, medical or vocational programs. We need to inspire the next generation of talented professionals.
Working together, we can improve the lives of Americans suffering with mental health concerns, not just during this month, but every month in every community across the country. Mental wellness starts here.
Please follow and like us:
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
Related
READ LATER - DOWNLOAD THIS POST AS PDF >> CLICK HERE <<
