If you’re experiencing an emergency or need help right away, please call 911.
#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
About 47.6 million adults in the United States had #mentalillnesses last year, and an estimated 10.7 million adults had serious thoughts of #suicide, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
In addition to 911 for emergencies, here are some resources if you or your loved ones are in crisis:
- The toll-free #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential.
- Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line, which provides 24/7 support with a trained crisis counselor.
- #Veterans can call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) to reach responders at the Department of Veterans Affairs. They also provide confidential online chats and text support at 838255.
To learn more about #mentalhealth and finding support:
- The #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline is made up of a network of more than 150 crisis centers across the U.S. Find the one closest to you on their website.
- Call the #NAMI (#NationalAllianceonMentalIllness) helpline at 1-800-950-6264, or text NAMI to 741741. NAMI also has programs for family and caregivers that provide education and support.
- Search for a psychiatrist in your area using the American Psychiatric Association’s website.
- Find substance abuse or #mentalhealth facilities through the Department of Health and Human Services’ SAMHSA website.
- Search for a therapist, psychiatrist, or treatment centers near you on PsychologyToday.com.
Watch “CBS This Morning’s” special broadcast, “Stop the #Stigma: A Conversation About Mental Health.”
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
