Tuesday, July 7, 2026



James Donaldson on Mental Health - Golden Gate Bridge deaths by suicide down 87% after installation of prevention nets, report says
By Gloria Rodríguez 

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Golden Gate bridge has a suicide prevention net along the full length of the 1.7-mile span. And it appears to be working.

According to the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, there were 8 suicides at the bridge in 2024, the first full year with the net and a 73% decline from the annual average of 30 before the net.

Last year, there were 4 suicides. That's an 87% decline.

There were zero suicides from June through December.

The Bridge Rail Foundation advocated for the net.

"This is exactly what we were hoping to see," said Bridge Rail Foundation Board President Narges Zohoury Dillon.

"In the field of suicide prevention, we know that restricting access to means is the most effective way that we can reduce suicides."

There has been signage along the Golden Gate Bridge with information about crisis counseling for many years.

Advocates say that wasn't enough and that these new numbers are encouraging.

The total cost of the project was $224 million, funded through a combination of federal, state and private funds.

Santa Rosa resident Thorton McKay is a standup comic who survived a suicide attempt off the Golden Gate Bridge. He feels that money should have been used to help people in other ways.

"As somebody whose survived jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, I think that money could have went to mental health. It could have benefitted other nonprofits," McKay said. "I think the suicide net was like a band aid on a band aid."

McKay feels people will find other ways to die by suicide.

#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/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite 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

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Meredith Sears is the "Greater San Francisco Bay Area" chapter president of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and a psychologist.

She agrees access to mental health care is important, but says reducing access to lethal means can save lives.

"What we do know from research on suicide and access to lethal means is that there isn't a lot of evidence to suggest that people do tend to substitute-when they have a preferred means of suicide, they don't tend to move on to a different type of means if that means is unavailable for them," Sears said. "So for example, if someone has been thinking about jumping from a specific bridge-when they don't have access to that bridge, they don't tend to move on to other types of means or other bridges."

Experts say suicide is a complex issue and that preventing it takes a multi-prong approach.

The Golden Gate Bridge was the top suicide site in the world for years.

According to the Bridge Rail Foundation, there have been at least 1,800 suicide deaths from the bridge.

Those with suicidal thoughts can reach out for support from those around them or to mental health professionals or call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=16387

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Golden Gate Bridge deaths by suicide down 87% after installation of prevention nets, report says

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Golden Gate Bridge deaths by suicide down 87% after installation of prevention nets, report says


By Gloria Rodríguez 


SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The Golden Gate bridge has a suicide prevention net along the full length of the 1.7-mile span. And it appears to be working.


According to the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, there were 8 suicides at the bridge in 2024, the first full year with the net and a 73% decline from the annual average of 30 before the net.


Last year, there were 4 suicides. That's an 87% decline.


There were zero suicides from June through December.



The Bridge Rail Foundation advocated for the net.


"This is exactly what we were hoping to see," said Bridge Rail Foundation Board President Narges Zohoury Dillon.


"In the field of suicide prevention, we know that restricting access to means is the most effective way that we can reduce suicides."


There has been signage along the Golden Gate Bridge with information about crisis counseling for many years.


Advocates say that wasn't enough and that these new numbers are encouraging.


The total cost of the project was $224 million, funded through a combination of federal, state and private funds.


Santa Rosa resident Thorton McKay is a standup comic who survived a suicide attempt off the Golden Gate Bridge. He feels that money should have been used to help people in other ways.


"As somebody whose survived jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, I think that money could have went to mental health. It could have benefitted other nonprofits," McKay said. "I think the suicide net was like a band aid on a band aid."


McKay feels people will find other ways to die by suicide.


#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


Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson



Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog



Meredith Sears is the "Greater San Francisco Bay Area" chapter president of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and a psychologist.


She agrees access to mental health care is important, but says reducing access to lethal means can save lives.


"What we do know from research on suicide and access to lethal means is that there isn't a lot of evidence to suggest that people do tend to substitute-when they have a preferred means of suicide, they don't tend to move on to a different type of means if that means is unavailable for them," Sears said. "So for example, if someone has been thinking about jumping from a specific bridge-when they don't have access to that bridge, they don't tend to move on to other types of means or other bridges."


Experts say suicide is a complex issue and that preventing it takes a multi-prong approach.


The Golden Gate Bridge was the top suicide site in the world for years.


According to the Bridge Rail Foundation, there have been at least 1,800 suicide deaths from the bridge.


Those with suicidal thoughts can reach out for support from those around them or to mental health professionals or call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.


https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-golden-gate-bridge-deaths-by-suicide-down-87-after-installation-of-prevention-nets-report-says/

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Building Resilience: Learning from Failures

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Building Resilience: Learning from Failures

Failure is often seen as the end of the road, but what if it's just the beginning of a new journey? Building resilience is about transforming failures into stepping stones, leading us to success. In this blog post, we'll explore how to learn from failures and develop resilience, a crucial trait for personal and professional growth.


Table of Contents


1. Introduction


2. Understanding Resilience


3. The Role of Failures in Building Resilience


4. Strategies for Learning from Failures


5. Inspiring Examples of Resilience


6. Conclusion


7. FAQs


#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


Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson



Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog



Understanding Resilience


Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and keep going in the face of adversity. It’s a skill that can be developed through practice and perseverance. Resilience isn't about never experiencing stress or failure; rather, it's about cultivating the capacity to recover and grow stronger.


Blog post illustration


Think of resilience as a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets. Each failure is like a weight that challenges your resilience muscle, and with each lift, you become more robust and capable of handling future challenges.


Blog post illustration


The Role of Failures in Building Resilience


Failures play a pivotal role in building resilience. They provide us with the opportunity to reflect, learn, and improve. When confronted with failure, it's easy to feel defeated. However, by shifting our perspective, we can see failures as valuable learning experiences.


Consider Thomas Edison, who famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Each unsuccessful attempt brought him closer to the invention of the light bulb. This mindset turns failures into powerful tools for growth.


Strategies for Learning from Failures


1. Embrace a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset, a term popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. Embracing this mindset allows you to see failures as opportunities for development, rather than insurmountable obstacles.


2. Reflect and Analyze

After experiencing a failure, take time to reflect on what went wrong. Analyze the situation objectively and identify the factors that contributed to the failure. This process of reflection is crucial in extracting lessons and avoiding similar mistakes in the future.


3. Set Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by failures. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach not only reduces stress but also makes it easier to identify specific areas for improvement when things don't go as planned.


4. Seek Feedback

Feedback is an invaluable resource when it comes to learning from failures. Don't hesitate to ask for constructive criticism from peers, mentors, or colleagues. Their insights can provide you with a fresh perspective and help you identify blind spots.


5. Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself. It's natural to feel disappointed after a failure, but self-criticism can be detrimental to your resilience. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your efforts and reminding yourself that failure is a part of the learning process.


Inspiring Examples of Resilience


History is filled with stories of individuals who demonstrated remarkable resilience. Consider J.K. Rowling, who faced numerous rejections before finally publishing the "Harry Potter" series. Her perseverance transformed initial failures into global success.


Another inspiring example is Steve Jobs, who was fired from his own company, Apple, only to return years later to lead it to unprecedented success. These stories remind us that resilience can turn setbacks into comebacks.


Conclusion


Building resilience is a journey, not a destination. By learning from failures and adopting strategies to enhance our resilience, we can navigate life's challenges more effectively. Remember, every failure is a stepping stone on the path to success. Embrace them, learn from them, and let them propel you forward.


FAQs


Q: Can resilience be taught?


A: Yes, resilience can be developed over time through practice, reflection, and adopting a growth mindset.


Q: How can I handle repeated failures?


A: Focus on learning from each experience, seek feedback, and adjust your strategies. Repeated failures can often indicate the need for a new approach.


Q: Are some people naturally more resilient than others?


A: While some individuals may have a natural inclination towards resilience, it is a skill that can be cultivated by anyone willing to put in the effort.


https://standingabovethecrowd.com/building-resilience-learning-from-failures/

Monday, July 6, 2026

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Young adult suicide rate rises in Washington state

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Young adult suicide rate rises in Washington state

Change in young adult suicide rate, 2014 to 2024



- By Melissa Santos, Alex Fitzpatrick

#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


Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson



Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog



Change in young adult suicide rate, 2014 to 2024

Among 18- to 27-year-olds


Washington's young adult suicide rate rose more than 13% from 2014 to 2024, mirroring a national trend, a recent analysis finds.


Why it matters: The increase underscores the toll of the country's mental health crisis — particularly in Washington, where the suicide rate among young people remains higher than the national average.


By the numbers: The suicide rate for Washington adults aged 18-27 climbed 13.3% between 2014 and 2024, reaching 18.8 per 100,000 people, per a new analysis of CDC data from Stateline, a nonprofit newsroom.


The big picture: Nationwide, the suicide rate among that age group saw a sharper 20% increase.


- Yet the national rate — 16.4 deaths per 100,000 — remained lower than in Washington.

Between the lines: The rising suicide rate among 18- to 27-year-olds comes as Gen Zers enter that age range and millennials leave it.


What they're saying: "Theories behind the increase range from bullying on social media, since Gen Z was the first generation to grow up with the internet, to economic despair, to cultural resistance to seeking help for depression," per Stateline.


Zoom in: Seattle officials have been looking at ways to address youth mental health.


- An education levy voters approved last month will add five new school-based health centers, which will help provide K-12 students with mental health care both in-person and virtually.

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Ayuda disponible en español.


https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-young-adult-suicide-rate-rises-in-washington-state/

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Creating a Self-Care Plan for Busy Professionals

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Creating a Self-Care Plan for Busy Professionals

Creating a Self-Care Plan for Busy Professionals


In today's fast-paced world, self-care often takes a backseat to professional obligations. However, prioritizing your well-being is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health. This guide will walk you through creating a self-care plan tailored to the needs of busy professionals.


Table of Contents



1. Introduction

2. Understanding the Importance of Self-Care

3. Assessing Your Current Self-Care Practices

4. Setting Realistic Goals

5. Crafting Your Personalized Self-Care Plan

6. Implementing Your Plan

7. Conclusion

8. FAQs


Understanding the Importance of Self-Care


Self-care is more than just a buzzword; it's an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. For busy professionals, neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and even serious health issues. By investing time in yourself, you recharge your physical and emotional batteries, which can lead to improved work performance and overall life satisfaction.


Assessing Your Current Self-Care Practices


Before you can improve your self-care regimen, it's important to understand where you currently stand. Take a moment to reflect on how you spend your time and the activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Consider keeping a journal for a week to track your daily habits and identify areas that could use more attention.


Setting Realistic Goals


Once you've assessed your current practices, it's time to set realistic self-care goals. These should be specific, achievable, and tailored to your lifestyle. For instance, if you find that you're not getting enough sleep, a goal might be to establish a consistent bedtime routine. Remember, the aim is progress, not perfection.


Crafting Your Personalized Self-Care Plan


With your goals in mind, you can now craft a personalized self-care plan. Here are some elements to consider including:


Physical Care

Incorporate physical activities that you enjoy and can realistically fit into your schedule. This could be a morning yoga session, a brisk walk during lunch, or a weekly dance class. Don't forget the basics like staying hydrated and eating nutritious meals.


Mental and Emotional Care

Engage in activities that support your mental and emotional health. Meditation, journaling, or simply taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply can make a significant difference. Ensure you have a support system in place, whether it's friends, family, or a professional therapist.


Social Self-Care

Maintaining social connections is vital for mental health. Schedule regular catch-ups with friends or family. Even a quick phone call or text message can help you stay connected.


Professional Self-Care

At work, ensure you're setting boundaries to prevent burnout. Take regular breaks, delegate tasks when possible, and don't be afraid to say no when necessary. Remember, a well-rested mind is a productive one.


#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


Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson



Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog



Implementing Your Plan


Now that you have a plan, it's time to put it into action. Start small and gradually incorporate more elements as you become comfortable. Consistency is key. Consider setting reminders or using a planner to keep track of your self-care activities. Remember, it's okay to adjust your plan as needed. Life is unpredictable, and flexibility is essential.


Conclusion


Creating a self-care plan tailored to your needs as a busy professional is an investment in your overall well-being. By assessing your current habits, setting realistic goals, and implementing a personalized plan, you can ensure that self-care becomes a sustainable part of your routine. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it's a necessity.


FAQs


Q: How can I find time for self-care in a busy schedule?


A: Start by assessing your current schedule and identifying gaps or wasted time. Even small pockets of time can be used effectively for self-care. Prioritize activities that are most beneficial to you and consider setting boundaries to protect your self-care time.


Q: What if I fall off my self-care routine?


A: It's important to be forgiving with yourself. Life can be unpredictable, and it's okay to stray from your plan. Simply reassess and adjust your goals as needed, and remember that every day is a new opportunity to start fresh.


Q: Can self-care be something simple?


A: Absolutely! Self-care doesn't have to be elaborate or time-consuming. It can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, enjoying a cup of tea, or spending a few minutes reading a book. The key is to choose activities that genuinely recharge you.


https://standingabovethecrowd.com/creating-a-self-care-plan-for-busy-professionals/


James Donaldson on Mental Health - Young adult suicide rate rises in Washington state
Change in young adult suicide rate, 2014 to 2024

- By Melissa Santos, Alex Fitzpatrick

#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/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite 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

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Change in young adult suicide rate, 2014 to 2024

Among 18- to 27-year-olds

Washington's young adult suicide rate rose more than 13% from 2014 to 2024, mirroring a national trend, a recent analysis finds.

Why it matters: The increase underscores the toll of the country's mental health crisis — particularly in Washington, where the suicide rate among young people remains higher than the national average.

By the numbers: The suicide rate for Washington adults aged 18-27 climbed 13.3% between 2014 and 2024, reaching 18.8 per 100,000 people, per a new analysis of CDC data from Stateline, a nonprofit newsroom.

The big picture: Nationwide, the suicide rate among that age group saw a sharper 20% increase.

- Yet the national rate — 16.4 deaths per 100,000 — remained lower than in Washington.

Between the lines: The rising suicide rate among 18- to 27-year-olds comes as Gen Zers enter that age range and millennials leave it.

What they're saying: "Theories behind the increase range from bullying on social media, since Gen Z was the first generation to grow up with the internet, to economic despair, to cultural resistance to seeking help for depression," per Stateline.

Zoom in: Seattle officials have been looking at ways to address youth mental health.

- An education levy voters approved last month will add five new school-based health centers, which will help provide K-12 students with mental health care both in-person and virtually.

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Ayuda disponible en español. https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=16384

Sunday, July 5, 2026



James Donaldson on Mental Health - Study highlights link between hostile racism and suicide risk in young Black men
By Bert Gambini

“Racism is not a monolithic experience. There are different classes of racism, ranging from microaggressions to systemic exclusion, all affecting people in different ways, and those effects have particularly damaging psychological consequences for this population. ”

Enoch Azasu, assistant professor

University at Buffalo School of Social Work

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Hostile racism, such as overt, aggressive and demeaning racial encounters, is significantly associated with increased suicidality in young Black adult men. But not all experiences with racism examined in a new study affected suicide risk in the same way, according to a University at Buffalo School of Social Work faculty member who was part of the research team.

The study revealed that hostile racism was associated with a 15% increase in suicide ideation and a 13% increase in suicide attempts, while exposure to aversive-hostile racism, which is often more covert and marked by exclusion and hostility in institutional settings, was associated with a 10% decrease in the likelihood of experiencing suicide ideation, though not in suicide attempts. Avoidant racism, such as segregation policies, did not emerge as a predictor of suicide risk for Black emerging adults, ages 18-29.

This age group occupies a unique developmental period characterized by identity exploration, instability, self-focus and evolving social roles. Heightened stress during this period can cause psychological stress and elevate suicide risk, as shown in previous research.

The findings, published in the journal Social Work in Public Health, underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of the relationship between racism and suicidality and the need for nuanced approaches in the areas of mental health research, clinical practice and policy.

“Racism is not a monolithic experience,” says Enoch Azasu, PhD, an assistant professor in the UB School of Social Work, and a paper co-author. “There are different classes of racism, ranging from microaggressions to systemic exclusion, all affecting people in different ways, and those effects have particularly damaging psychological consequences for this population.”

#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/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite 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

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

The study was conducted in St. Louis, a city whose history of residential segregation and systemic racism came into sharp national focus following the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson, making it a critical context for examining how different forms of racism affect mental health outcomes. The study was co-authored by Azasu, Sean Joe, PhD, professor of social development at Washington University in St. Louis, and Robert O. Motley Jr., PhD, assistant professor of social work at Boston College. At the time of the research, all three were affiliated with the Race and Opportunity Lab at Washington University in St. Louis.

Azasu says that future research using longitudinal methods, tracking effects over time, is needed to better understand how racism influences mental health outcomes.  Furthermore, social workers should deepen their understanding of racism and the nature of its varying effects.

“Effective interventions require culturally attuned African-centered approaches that can improve self-concept, cultural identity and emotional coping,” he says. “The more we understand about different classes of racism, the better equipped we'll be to develop targeted interventions that address the specific mental health needs of Black emerging adults.”

The study used computer-assisted surveys given to 300 Black emerging adults in the St. Louis metropolitan area, all of whom were attending either a university or community college. Participants were asked about suicidal thoughts and planning, and suicide attempts.

To distinguish among the different types of racism, the researchers used the 18 item Classes of Racism, a psychological measure that helps quantify exposure to specific classes of racist events in order to assess their impact on someone’s mental and physical health.

“Understanding the tone and intensity of these racism-based experiences provides critical insight in their psychological impact and allows us to more effectively address this as a public health priority,” says Azasu. “While this research highlights serious concerns, it’s important to note that strong cultural identity, family support and spirituality serve as protective factors that can buffer against these harmful effects.” 

Photo by Galvu00e3o Menacho on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=16381