A View From Above on Things That Make The World Go 'Round
James Donaldson on Mental Health – The Invisible Battle: Veterans and Suicide
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It is a well-known fact that soldiers brave unimaginable challenges and dangers to protect our freedom. They sacrifice their peace of mind, their time with loved ones, and sometimes even their own lives. However, what remains invisible to many is the silent battle they face within themselves once they return home. The alarming issue of veterans and suicide demands our immediate attention and support.
The journey of a soldier does not end when they take off their uniform. In fact, for many, it is just the beginning of a complex battle against mental health issues such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. Coping with the aftermath of war can be overwhelming, and without proper support systems in place, many veterans find themselves at a breaking point.
#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 statistics concerning veteran suicide are deeply alarming. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 22 veterans die by suicide every day in the United States. That’s more than 8,000 lives lost each year – a devastating toll that often goes unnoticed in society. These heroes who fought for our country are now fighting an internal war, and we cannot let them suffer in silence.
There are various factors that contribute to the high rates of suicide among veterans. The trauma experienced during combat, combined with the challenges of transitioning back into civilian life, can create an overwhelming sense of isolation. Many veterans struggle to find employment, face financial difficulties, and encounter relationship problems, all of which further exacerbate their mental health struggles.
Moreover, the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues is another significant barrier for veterans. The “tough guy” image prevalent in military culture often discourages soldiers from seeking the care they so desperately need. This toxic masculinity prevents them from reaching out to friends, family, or mental health professionals, leaving them to suffer in silence.
To address this crisis, it is essential to prioritize mental health support for veterans. The VA and various nonprofit organizations are working tirelessly to provide accessible resources for veterans in need. From offering counseling services to creating peer support networks, these initiatives aim to create safe spaces where veterans can openly express their struggles and receive the help they need.
Community support also plays a vital role in combating veteran suicide. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that veterans feel valued, supported, and integrated into society. By advocating for policies that prioritize veterans’ mental health and creating opportunities for them to contribute their skills and expertise, we can help mitigate the feelings of isolation and despair that lead to suicide.
Additionally, raising awareness about the challenges veterans face is crucial. Education can dispel myths about PTSD and mental health, promoting empathy and understanding within communities. By fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and eliminates the stigma associated with seeking help, we create a foundation for healing and recovery.
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
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