If you are having thoughts about #suicide there could also be some behavioural and/or physical changes that could tell you something isn’t right.
#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
It might be subtle, but it’s likely that you notice a number of signs rather than just one or two. Remember that everyone is different and respond differently to these thoughts and feelings.
Non-verbal indicators may include:
- social withdrawal
- a persistent drop in mood
- disinterest in maintaining personal hygiene or appearance
- uncharacteristically reckless behaviour
- poor diet changes, rapid weight changes
- being distracted
- anger
- insomnia
- alcohol or drug abuse
- giving away sentimental or expensive possessions
Indirect verbal expressions may include:
- hopelessness
- failing to see a future
- believing they are a burden to others
- saying they feel worthless or alone
- talking about their death or wanting to die.
This is not an exhaustive list. Be guided by your instincts.
Reasons for suicidal feelings
The reasons that people take their own lives are often very complex. Factors influencing whether someone is likely to be suicidal include:
Risk factors – sometimes called vulnerability factors, these factors increase the likelihood of suicidal behaviour.
Risk factors include:
- Previous suicide attempts
- History of substance abuse
- History of mental health conditions – depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD
- Relationship problems – conflict with parents and / or romantic partners
- Legal or disciplinary problems
- Access to harmful means, such as medication or weapons
- Recent death or suicide of a family member or a close friend
- Ongoing exposure to bullying behaviour
- Physical illness or disability.
Protective factors – these reduce the likelihood of suicidal behaviour, and work to improve a person’s ability to cope with difficult circumstances.
- About the Author
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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
