Here is an interesting article I came across today about college students and suicide during the holidays. I know it’s not the most pleasant topic to talk about, but since it is happening at an alarming rate, and my whole new “thing”, is to be a voice and advocate for mental health awareness, I wanted to share this with you.
The holidays are a difficult time for everyone, if not dealing with depression and anxiety, there’s always the stress of traveling to be with family, shopping for the right gifts, having your house in order to receive company, etc.
And, there’s a lot of folks like me, alone during the holidays, that could use a good friend, and someone to reach out to them to be a “day brightener”.
So, while we’re at it during the holidays, let’s keep in mind those who may not get a chance to get a lot of social interaction, our senior citizens, the homeless, the poverty-stricken population, your kids away at college, and so many more. And, there’s a lot of folks in the hospitals during the holidays who could use a visitor.
Here’s the article I wanted to share with you today:
According to the American College Health Association (ACHA), the suicide rate among young adults, ages 15-24, has tripled over the last two generations.
If we want that to change, DBSA needs your support.
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance recognize the transition to adulthood can be one of the most trying times in a person’s life. The uncertainty of the future, the fear of not fitting in, the stark reality of student loan debt, and the pressures of succeeding academically, can all contribute to mental health crises and substance use.
Connecting individuals with mental health conditions with peer support have been proven to lessen the risk of suicide and to improve quality of life. With over 21 million adults with a mood disorder in the United States, just think about the impact we could have.
DBSA is committed to providing free, quality peer mental health support, but now more than ever we need your help in order to continue expanding our reach.
Visit Response@DBSAlliance.org for more information.
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
