According to the #NationalAllianceonMentalHealth, almost 1 in 5 #Americans experience #mentalhealth concerns each year, while more than 100 die by #suicide every day. #Suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the US. Now with the #COVID-19 crisis, precautions introduced such as #socialdistancing and self-isolation, coupled with the fear of medical emergencies and growing #anxiety about the prolonged nature of the crisis, could amplify the number of people suffering from #mentalhealthconcerns across the US. It is estimated that over 40% of the population has seen a decrease in their #mentalwellness since the #COVID-19 outbreak.
The #Pandemic Crisis Services Response Coalition has designed a website to make it easier for #Americans to prevent a #mentalhealthcrisis while accessing available treatment when it is necessary.
The website, www.covidmentalhealthsupport.org, includes three main sections: guidance for people in crisis wishing to access support, guidance for helping a loved one in crisis, and resources for #healthcareprofessionals.
According to the American Association of Suicidology website, how do you remember the Warning Signs of #Suicide? Here’s an easy way to remember: IS PATH WARM?
Ideation, #SubstanceAbuse
Purposelessness, #Anxiety, Trapped, #Hopelessness
Withdrawal, Anger, Recklessness, Mood Changes
Warning Signs of Acute #Suicide Risk
The following are not always communicated directly or outwardly:
• Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself; and or,
• Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means; and/or,
• Talking or writing about death, dying or #suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.
Additional Warning Signs:
• Increased substance (#alcohol or #drug) use
• No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
• #Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all of the time
• Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out
• #Hopelessness
• Withdrawal from friends, family and society
• Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
• Dramatic mood changes
• Giving away prized possessions or seeking long-term care for pets
If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a #mentalhealthprofessional, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for a referral, or text “HOME” to 741741 to reach the crisis text line.
#Suicide ranks as the 2nd leading cause of death for 15-34-year-olds. Visit the National Center for the Prevention of #Youth #Suicide for youth-specific warning signs and risk factors.
#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
Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:
From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy
On a separate note, it is important to point out that Kentucky is one of the unhealthiest states in our nation; but, a few healthy lifestyle choices could change this. First, eating normally proportioned helpings of nutritious foods including at least five fruits and vegetables a day can lower weight and reduce heart disease and diabetes. Second, exercising about 30 minutes per day can lower blood pressure. Third, avoiding the use of tobacco products can reduce several types of cancer. Finally, making sure you get your needed preventive screenings can detect diseases early and greatly increase your chances for a positive health outcomes, while receiving your recommended vaccinations can prevent acquiring disease in the first place. Visit our website at www.LCDHD.org and click the “52 Weeks to Health” banner to learn more about each of these areas.
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
