Editor’s note: If you are struggling, know that you are not alone. Call or text 988. Help is just a moment away. Go to webelong988.com to learn more about this life-saving resource.
On average, 22 veterans are lost each day to suicide across the nation, resulting in hundreds of our nation’s finest lost to this epidemic each year. Behind these numbers are individuals and families facing unseen struggles and feelings of isolation. In these moments of crisis, veterans may feel they have nowhere to turn, or fear that no one can truly understand what they’re enduring.
Oklahoma City is fortunate to have comprehensive mental health support and care available for post-9/11 veterans, those on active duty, members of the National Guard and Reserve, and military families. The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock is actively aiding in efforts to reduce veteran suicide rates and address other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other common behavioral and mental health challenges.
I was first introduced to the Cohen Veterans Network through their clinic in Lawton. During the tour of the facility, I was highly impressed by their level of service and their innovative approaches to providing care to veterans and their families. Since its inception in 2021, the Lawton clinic has served thousands of veterans and families, logging over 16,000 clinical sessions. Following this visit, it was apparent that this comprehensive care could benefit many more people across the state, and I was determined to expand these critical services to the Oklahoma City metro area.
Thanks to a dedicated team, state agency partners, and CVN’s expansive network, the Oklahoma City clinic opened its doors in October 2023. Over the past 14 months, the facility has provided more than 5,200 clinical sessions. By providing a holistic approach, assisting with community resources, reducing barriers to care, and treating each case individually, the impact in the metro area has been tremendous.
Veterans salute Nov. 11 as the national anthem is played at the Veterans Day ceremony at the Oklahoma National Guard Museum.
Though this facility has been vital in improving mental health outcomes in our area, there is still much work to be done and many individuals still in need of care. As we continue to expand services and outreach, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to address the unique challenges faced by those who have served our country. It is our collective responsibility to honor their service and sacrifice, and we must commit to ensuring services are in reach for every veteran.
#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
It is also vital that individuals take the time to familiarize themselves with the resources available to veterans so they can offer support when needed. There is often a stigma associated with veterans’ mental health challenges, and knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference. The 988 hotline, the Cohen Veterans Network, and the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services all have expansive resources and dedicated professionals to help those in need.
Every veteran, no matter the challenges they face, deserves the support and resources needed to heal and find hope. As we approach the 2025 legislative session, I look forward to continuing conversations and finding legislative avenues to further expand mental health care access for those who have served us, and all Oklahomans.
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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