James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention, 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 suicidal thoughts 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
Colorado has one of the highest rates of suicide in the U.S., with 1,175 suicides last year alone, according to data from the Colorado Health Institute.
In 2018, there were 11 suicides in Summit County, which has a population of about 30,000 people.
The holidays can be a particularly stressful time of year. Here are some commonly asked questions about the holidays and mental health.
Why are the holidays so stressful?
This time of year can be challenging for people, especially as the holidays approach. There can be financial challenges with trying to provide the essentials, as well as special presents for kids and families. These are also times when loneliness can be worsened, especially for those who are not close to their families. Shorter days and worse weather can also worsen underlying mental health and depression symptoms. And there are of course the additional stressors of work, family, life, and balancing it all.
Do suicide rates go up during this time of year?
Suicide rates decrease in December, and peak in the spring and fall. But that doesn’t mean we can let our guard down. Risk factors can be put into three categories: health, environmental, and historical factors. Anyone who has a history of mental health issues, especially depression, substance abuse, or anxiety, chronic pain or traumatic brain injury can be at risk. Environmental factors can include stressful life events, access to guns, work or personal issues (like a breakup, divorce or loss of a job). And, historical factors a personal or family history of suicide or suicide attempts, or abuse can also contribute.
What can people do to minimize their stress and improve their mental health?
Find ways to de-stress. Whatever works best for you. Some activities which have been shown to help with stress are exercise, meditation, reading, getting outdoors, listening to music. Really, whatever works best for you and your interests. There is no magic stress-reliever, but it is important to find what works best for you. We do say to avoid using drugs and alcohol for stress relief, as this can lead to overuse and additional stressors.
Be on the lookout for any signs and symptoms of mood change, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, not acting normally, or drinking/using drugs. If you see or hear anything of concern, get medical help immediately. It’s amazing how often family and friends will say that they noticed changes but did not want to hurt the person’s feelings or interfere or be nosey. This is not the case. Do what you can to get the person to help as soon as possible.
Follow 9NEWS Medical Expert Dr. Comilla Sasson on Facebook and Twitter. Have a medical question or health topic idea? Email Dr. Comilla at c.sasson@9news.com
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
