Don’t forget
#mentalhealth
amid #virus
#pandemic
There was a time in #America when discussing #mentalhealth was something that just wasn’t done. Admitting that you were feeling sad or depressed was considered a sign of weakness.
Thankfully, many today understand that it actually takes an incredible amount of strength to talk to someone about the #mental struggles they go through.
That is especially important considering the times we find ourselves in right now. No one could have imagined what life would look like in the midst of a global #pandemic, or what it might do to our social lives.
We can’t help but be social people. We like to go to restaurants, movie theaters, sporting events and concerts not only for the food and entertainment, but also to experience it with other people. We enjoy spending time with friends and family.
It’s been the human experience for centuries.
The #pandemic has no doubt put a strain on #mentalhealth. Many of us sheltered in place for several weeks, only leaving home for essentials. For some, it meant isolating from normal social groups.
For many, it meant spending several weeks cooped up inside with others who felt just as marooned indoors. That can put a serious strain on even the best of relationships.
Even though restrictions have been loosened, the #pandemic combined with the rest of the negativity permeating throughout our world can lead some down a dark path. A feeling of hopelessness can turn into morbid thoughts.
September is #NationalSuicidePreventionMonth. It serves as a reminder of how important it is for all of us to take care of our #mentalhealth.
The stats paint a bleak picture. There is one death by #suicide every 12 minutes, according to the #CentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the #UnitedStates.
Around the world it is the second leading cause of death for people 14 to 25 years old.
Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. According to the #NationalAllianceofMentalHealth, #suicide is often the result of an untreated #mentalhealthcondition.
Warning signs of trouble include increased alcohol or drug use, aggressive behavior, withdrawal from friends and family, dramatic mood swings and impulsive behavior.
Seek immediate help if you see someone engaging in suicidal behaviors that include collecting or saving pills, buying a weapon, giving away possessions, tying up loose ends or saying goodbye to friends and families.
#JamesDonaldson 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
If you need help or know someone who does, please call the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
If you are struggling, remember that no matter how hopeless the world may seem, there are people who love you and want what is best for you.
Reach out to them to help you get through trying times.
The Brunswick (Ga.) News
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
