James Donaldson on Mental Health - 'It is everyone's business to talk about suicide'

By Caroline McClatchey

In one part of Northern Ireland this week, the conversation is going to be all about suicide and mental health.

The Baton of Hope is coming to Newry on Wednesday and it will travel around the wider area, with events being held to spread the message that there is support out there.

Leeanne Carey wanted to be a baton bearer in honour of her sister Louise, whom she lost to suicide in August 2022.

She was 33 years old and had suffered with her mental health for some time.

The mum-of-four from Gilford, in County Down, said in her area alone there had been 10 suicides in the past six years.

"I know Gilford is a small place, but most likely everybody has been affected in some capacity or known someone who has died by suicide," she said.

"It's the ripple effect that comes with it."

What is the Baton of Hope?

Leeanne, who helped set up a charity called Changing Lives NI, is at pains to highlight just how much support is available for people struggling with their mental health.

"A lot of people think there is nothing out there. They go to the GP or A&E, they don't realize there is a wealth of support in the voluntary sector," she said.

"The voluntary sector are probably doing more than the NHS to be perfectly honest. - a wider range of services as well."

And that is where the Baton of Hope comes in, to point people in the right direction.

It is the UK's biggest suicide prevention initiative and it was set up by two grieving fathers, Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip, whose sons took their own lives.

They came up with the idea of a baton which would be carried, like an Olympic torch, by people who had lost loved ones to suicide.

The baton is about to embark on another tour of the UK - the first was in 2023 - and Newry is the second stop of 20.

The baton's stint in Northern Ireland is being hosted by PIPS Hope and Support, a charity dedicated to suicide prevention.

Padraig Harte, who used to work for PIPS and is the project lead for the Newry leg of the baton, said the plans grew and grew as they wanted to include as much of the area as possible.

"It's quite rural compared to the urban areas in Great Britain," he said.

"We are taking the baton lengthy distances, so we had to have different events and activities in each of the areas."

Throughout the day, the baton will visit Crossmaglen, Cullyhanna, Keady, Camlough, Bessbrook, Kilkeel, Rostrevor, Warrenpoint and Banbridge.

Community walks, tree planting ceremonies and coffee mornings are among the events taking place along the way.

The day will finish at Newry Leisure Centre, where a charity market will be welcoming people from 10:00 BST to 20:00.

There are 40 plus baton bearers - they include people affected by suicide, fundraisers and members of the emergency services.

The baton will also be transported at times by motorbikes, a supercar and an RNLI rescue boat.

Numerous schools, sports clubs, voluntary groups, community organisations and government agencies are also on board.

Eddie Drury is another baton bearer. When not working for the council maintaining Lurgan Park, he is a serial fundraiser.

He has lost count of the number of Caminos he has done - the network of pilgrimage routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain - and the last few have been to raise money for PIPS after a friend's son took his own life.

"I was absolutely delighted to be selected as a baton bearer because I just love PIPS and the job they do," he said.

"They are there for people who are feeling low and people who have gone through the trauma of suicide.

"It's very important to raise awareness of mental health issues in Northern Ireland."

'Totally smashed down'

The latest figures show there were 221 suicide deaths registered in Northern Ireland in 2023 - up from 203 the previous year.

More than three quarters of the deaths were men.

Padraig said there was still "a lot of taboo and stigma" around suicide, and the Baton of Hope was about encouraging people to "have those conversations".

"No-one is immune from poor mental health and suicide is everyone's business," he said.

On Wednesday, Leeanne will be in Havelock Park in Banbridge - where in addition to information stalls, there will be a petting zoo and games.

She also talked about the stigma, especially among men.

"They don't talk, they don't show emotion, they are strong, they hold it all together - and that needs to be totally smashed down," she said.

"Mums, women - cup of tea and they'll talk about anything. It needs to be discussed more. Talking about suicide doesn't cause suicide."

The Baton of Hope is supported by the Public Health Agency, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Give Inc.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, information and support can be found at the BBC's Action Line.

#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

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-it-is-everyones-business-to-talk-about-suicide-2/

By Caroline McClatchey

In one part of Northern Ireland this week, the conversation is going to be all about suicide and mental health.

The Baton of Hope is coming to Newry on Wednesday and it will travel around the wider area, with events being held to spread the message that there is support out there.

Leeanne Carey wanted to be a baton bearer in honour of her sister Louise, whom she lost to suicide in August 2022.

She was 33 years old and had suffered with her mental health for some time.

The mum-of-four from Gilford, in County Down, said in her area alone there had been 10 suicides in the past six years.

"I know Gilford is a small place, but most likely everybody has been affected in some capacity or known someone who has died by suicide," she said.

"It's the ripple effect that comes with it."

What is the Baton of Hope?

Leeanne, who helped set up a charity called Changing Lives NI, is at pains to highlight just how much support is available for people struggling with their mental health.

"A lot of people think there is nothing out there. They go to the GP or A&E, they don't realize there is a wealth of support in the voluntary sector," she said.

"The voluntary sector are probably doing more than the NHS to be perfectly honest. - a wider range of services as well."

And that is where the Baton of Hope comes in, to point people in the right direction.

It is the UK's biggest suicide prevention initiative and it was set up by two grieving fathers, Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip, whose sons took their own lives.

They came up with the idea of a baton which would be carried, like an Olympic torch, by people who had lost loved ones to suicide.

The baton is about to embark on another tour of the UK - the first was in 2023 - and Newry is the second stop of 20.

The baton's stint in Northern Ireland is being hosted by PIPS Hope and Support, a charity dedicated to suicide prevention.

Padraig Harte, who used to work for PIPS and is the project lead for the Newry leg of the baton, said the plans grew and grew as they wanted to include as much of the area as possible.

"It's quite rural compared to the urban areas in Great Britain," he said.

"We are taking the baton lengthy distances, so we had to have different events and activities in each of the areas."

Throughout the day, the baton will visit Crossmaglen, Cullyhanna, Keady, Camlough, Bessbrook, Kilkeel, Rostrevor, Warrenpoint and Banbridge.

Community walks, tree planting ceremonies and coffee mornings are among the events taking place along the way.

The day will finish at Newry Leisure Centre, where a charity market will be welcoming people from 10:00 BST to 20:00.

There are 40 plus baton bearers - they include people affected by suicide, fundraisers and members of the emergency services.

The baton will also be transported at times by motorbikes, a supercar and an RNLI rescue boat.

Numerous schools, sports clubs, voluntary groups, community organisations and government agencies are also on board.

Eddie Drury is another baton bearer. When not working for the council maintaining Lurgan Park, he is a serial fundraiser.

He has lost count of the number of Caminos he has done - the network of pilgrimage routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain - and the last few have been to raise money for PIPS after a friend's son took his own life.

"I was absolutely delighted to be selected as a baton bearer because I just love PIPS and the job they do," he said.

"They are there for people who are feeling low and people who have gone through the trauma of suicide.

"It's very important to raise awareness of mental health issues in Northern Ireland."

'Totally smashed down'

The latest figures show there were 221 suicide deaths registered in Northern Ireland in 2023 - up from 203 the previous year.

More than three quarters of the deaths were men.

Padraig said there was still "a lot of taboo and stigma" around suicide, and the Baton of Hope was about encouraging people to "have those conversations".

"No-one is immune from poor mental health and suicide is everyone's business," he said.

On Wednesday, Leeanne will be in Havelock Park in Banbridge - where in addition to information stalls, there will be a petting zoo and games.

She also talked about the stigma, especially among men.

"They don't talk, they don't show emotion, they are strong, they hold it all together - and that needs to be totally smashed down," she said.

"Mums, women - cup of tea and they'll talk about anything. It needs to be discussed more. Talking about suicide doesn't cause suicide."

The Baton of Hope is supported by the Public Health Agency, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Give Inc.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, information and support can be found at the BBC's Action Line.

#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 https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-it-is-everyones-business-to-talk-about-suicide-2/

Word In Black’s health reporter shares three things she’s learned in the last three years of reporting to prevent suicide death.

by Anissa Durham

Every September, we mark National Suicide Prevention Month, and after nearly four years reporting on mental health in the Black community, I know we can’t afford to stop talking about it. I’ve also seen how dangerous the mix of misinformation, stigma, and sensationalized coverage can be — especially when the focus is on how someone died instead of how we stop it from happening.

I get it. I remember being a teenager when Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why” sparked a national conversation about suicide. Today, it doesn’t take much scrolling to find graphic images or videos of people harming themselves on social media. But for all the headlines and hashtags, too much about suicide — especially in Black and Brown communities — remains unsaid.

That silence is dangerous. Instead of glamorizing death or offering only thoughts and prayers, we need to ask a harder question: How do we actually prevent suicide death? That’s the question I’ve asked mental health journalists and experts. And it’s pushed me to dig deeper into why suicide has become a growing mental health crisis in many Black and Brown communities. 

A Community in Crisis

In a 2023 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, between 2016 and 2020, Black people went to the emergency room due to suicidal ideation more than any other group. Clearly, folks in our community are struggling.

Last summer, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention invited me to join its pilot ethical reporting committee. The goal is to assemble leading media experts to weigh in on coverage, collaborate on projects, and build connections across journalism. Earlier this year, I also co-wrote a course for the Poynter Institute to help journalists report on mental health in an ethical manner. It has been a rewarding experience to help educate both journalists and readers — even if the work sometimes feels small.

I’m passionate about mental health reporting. But gaps remain in how media covers suicide. Here are a few things I’ve learned we can do as a community to reduce suicide deaths in the Black community:

Acknowledge Black Americans are dying by suicide

I’ve interviewed mental health professionals, therapists, physicians, and advocates, and they all stress the same point: Suicide is preventable. But the first step is acknowledging that people in our community are struggling and often suffering in silence. Too often, suicide gets dismissed as a “white people problem.” The reality is it affects every age group — and while rates differ across demographics, there’s nothing to suggest you can’t be affected by it. 

Here’s what you can do:

- Know the warning signs: Pay attention to shifts in mood, withdrawal from family or friends, talk of hopelessness, or risky behavior. These can all be signals that someone is in crisis.

- Engage in the community: Isolation fuels despair. Checking in on friends, neighbors, and loved ones — especially young people and elders — can help create the sense of community that protects against suicide.

- Support health equity initiatives: Support initiatives that expand access to affordable, culturally competent mental health services. From advocating for more Black therapists to backing school-based programs, equity saves lives.

My loved one is expressing suicidal behavior, should I make the call?

A few years ago, I was out with a group of friends when I found myself in the middle of someone’s mental health crisis. This was before I became a health reporter and know what I know today. But nonetheless, a friend of mine, a relatively new one, was engaging in very risky behavior. At first, I didn’t think it was an issue until it became clear she was trying to end her life. 

I won’t say how or what she did. But the point is, I kept asking myself and those around me if we should make the call. Do I call 911? Do I call 988, the suicide prevention hotline? While the other people in the group turned into makeshift social workers, something just didn’t sit right. 

It was late, after midnight, and I was in a city I didn’t know well. If I called the police on a friend I hardly knew, would it do more harm than good? The group around me was all people of color, and a flood of questions ran through my mind: How would this play out? Would she be placed on a 5150 hold? Could we help her where we were? Would we get arrested?

Everyone tried to console her while I stepped back and tried to think strategically. I didn’t want my emotions to cloud my judgment — even though they did, and in the end we didn’t call for help.

The fear of the unknown and the idea that we could make things worse was in all of our minds. We were young men and women of color who were out drinking and dancing — how well would that have played out? I’ll never know.

I wish I had called.

As far as I know, she later got help, but that night stayed with me. I’m now hyperaware of behaviors that can lead to suicidal ideation or attempts, and I think of all the people I’ve known who hid their pain. So, I implore you to be braver than I was that night. 

If you see someone suffering and talking about or attempting to end their life — make the call. In recent years, a number of states, including California where I live, operate mobile crisis teams. Instead of dispatching police officers to high stakes mental health crises, social workers and mental health professionals provide assessment and intervention. This has also reduced the rate of criminalization of Americans who experience a mental health crisis.

#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

Normalize talking about mental health

There’s an incredible amount of stigma associated with mental health. Within the Black community, it’s common to dismiss mental health as something we can individually work through. But the reality is, in order to prevent suicide death, we have to normalize talking about mental health. It’s easy to get caught in the mentality of just pushing through the hard stuff and being that strong Black woman or strong Black man.

Nearly everyone at some point struggles with their mental health. Including you. This can look like stress, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. A simple way to start opening up about your own mental health or that of a loved one, is creating a safe non-judgmental environment. Maybe this looks like talking about certain challenges with a loved one over a cup of coffee or during a relaxing dinner. 

It’s OK to ask questions, but how you frame them matters. Instead of saying, “How could you feel that way?” try, “Are there certain things that lead to those feelings?” Another good question is, “How can I best support you?” As a reporter, I’m always mindful of how I phrase questions so they aren’t invasive, while still seeking clarity and accuracy.

In interviews where the topic becomes a little heavier, I always offer my sources a break. I always emphasize that this is their story and if they are uncomfortable sharing certain details, that is OK. It’s always OK to stop. 

However, if you are talking to someone and it becomes clear that they are in a dangerous or distressing situation — it’s always best to call for help. It’s always better to make decisions, even if they are difficult, that prioritize mental health safety. And when you normalize conversations on mental health, this in turn can help prevent suicide death.  https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=15847

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Stronger Together: Conference focuses on Black youth mental health

The one-day conference was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to discuss mental health, learn about resources and look toward solutions.

by Jennifer Fernandez

A volunteer at the Stronger Together conference paints a scene on a piece of plywood on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C. Participants were encouraged to share their feelings by painting something. All of the pieces were attached to a wooden arch dubbed the Expression Tunnel.
By Jennifer Fernandez

ROCKY MOUNT — In the Black community, familes don’t talk about suicide or depression, one student said. Black men don’t grow up in homes where they can express themselves, another student added.

Those were some of the sentiments expressed by a panel of college students on Saturday at the inaugural Stronger Together conference, which shone a spotlight on Black youth mental health in North Carolina.

The students agreed that while resources are available to help, many of their friends and families don’t know about them.

That’s even though research shows Black youth are overrepresented in suicides and suicide attempts but are underrepresented in calls to the 988 suicide hotline, particularly in urban counties, state health officials said in a recent news release announcing North Carolina’s first suicide prevention plan aimed primarily at the Black community.

State officials released the five-year plan to address the rise in suicides among Black youth and young adults this summer. That increase reflects a national trend, according to a recent report published in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 

State data from 2023 also showed that Black youth, ages 10 to 24, were particularly overrepresented in emergency department visits for suicidal thoughts or self-injury, officials said. 

The one-day conference on Sept. 20 was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to not only discuss mental health, but also learn about resources and look toward solutions.

“I think this is very much needed to bring some awareness,” said Danielle Allen, 43, of Fuquay-Varina, who attended with her husband and their 13-year-old son, who participated in the talent showcase.

#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

Focus on Black youth
Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, discusses Black youth mental health at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, at the Rocky Mount Event Center in Rocky Mount, N.C.

North Carolina’s plan to address Black youth suicide is part of a national strategy on suicide that was developed last year, with a particular focus on historically marginalized communities. The state plan targets the 17 counties with higher rates of suicide among Black youth, higher calls to the 988 suicide prevention hotline or higher rates of emergency room visits for self-harm.

The state is also in the process of updating its overall suicide prevention plan. The final version, which will incorporate public feedback on the draft plan, should be released later this month, according to Hannah Harms, the state’s suicide prevention coordinator.

Part of the state’s efforts to address Black youth suicide include training laypeople — from families to youth club participants and leaders — to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone struggling with mental health, said Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services.

Not everyone will want to go to a professional, or be able to access one, Crosbie told NC Health News. And there’s always going to be a shortage of professional providers, she said. So it is important to equip the spaces where youth are going to go.

Even if there is a professional in the community, cultural differences can create a barrier if the young person can’t connect with them, she said.

“It can be especially hard to earn the trust and open up and think that they can help you,” Crosbie said.

It’s not just about access, she added. “It’s about the right kind of access.”

The state is focusing efforts on 17 counties, which were identified as having the highest rates of Black youth suicides based on population statistics and/or the highest call volume to the 988 Crisis and Suicide Hotline. This map is included in the North Carolina Black Youth Suicide Prevention Action Plan.
Speaking out

As part of the daylong conference, youth and audience members were invited to share their talents, from poetry and singing to spoken word and dance. 

One trio of young women danced to Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” wearing shirts with the words “trauma,” “pain” and “worry” taped to them. At the end of the song, they ripped the words away and walked off stage. 

Another woman sang a song she wrote about meeting a young man on the top of a parking deck as he contemplated suicide.

“I know it hurts, but it ain’t worth taking your life,” she sang. “You’re worth more than the pain you’re feeling inside.”

Briannah Billings was 24 when she met “August,” the young man in the song of the same name. She said she spoke to him as someone else called 911. He decided not to jump and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Billings never saw him again, but the experience stuck with her.

The more she shared the story, the more friends began to tell her about their own bouts with depression and mental health issues, Billings told NC Health News. 

Being able to discuss mental health freely is important, said Judith VanBoven, one of the college panel members. 

After graduating from UNC Charlotte with degrees in criminal justice and psychology, VanBoven spent some time teaching at Garner High School in Charlotte. A lot of students told her they didn’t know how to start talking about mental health.

“When we talk about it, instead of it being a bad idea or a taboo topic, we are actually making a safe space for people to express what they’re feeling,” she said.

Finding help

Thirteen-year-old Quest Allen, who created some of the beats used during rap performances at the event, said he sees a lot of “people hating” each other at school. But he also said he knows that sometimes they have something going on in their lives that could cause them to act out. 

Many kids, he said, just don’t know there is help out there. 

“They don’t really know where to go,” he said.

If people aren’t exposed to what help is available, they may just feel hopeless, said Quest’s father, Day Allen, 46.

“You think this is just how it is,” he said.

Crosbie told the audience it is important for the state to find ways to reach the Black community, to make sure residents know the resources available to them, and to ensure that those resources meet the community’s needs. 

The 988 suicide helpline, for example, is underutilized by the Black community, health officials have said.

“We know we have to emphasize that it is confidential. It is free. It is not calling 911,” Crosbie said. “It is about calling a mental health counselor who’s there to help you in any way that you need. This is not a punishment. It’s not a penalty, and it’s nothing to be ashamed about.”

Quest said he appreciated some of the coping techniques shared at the conference. In one, participants were taught how to wrap their arms around themselves in a self hug.

He said events like Saturday’s conference are needed.

“It’s important because we’re losing lives,” he said.

Social media affects mental health

The panel of college students delved into social media’s growing influence in the lives of youth and their mental health.

“If you put too much stakes in social media, it always has the opportunity to disappoint you,” said Nas Issoufou, a graduate student at UNC Charlotte. “What happens if you don’t get those likes? What happens if you don’t like how this picture turned out?”

Nautica McKoy, a Gardner-Webb University student, said social media can take away from when young people do have accomplishments, because there’s a constant focus on what has to come next. 

“We need to take a break from the media and seeing all these things,” VanBoven said.

“Know when it is time to take a break and step away from the phone to sit to give yourself peace of mind.”

There are so many voices of influence on social media and so much overstimulation, Day Allen said.

“It’s like handing your kids cocaine,” and they become addicted, he said. “And it’s not reality.”

Quest’s mom, Danielle Allen, said she and her husband are very aware of the potential harms of social media, so they limit their son’s screentime. 

“Your kid might not like it, but it’s gonna be good for them in the long run,” she said.

The Young People’s Alliance, a North Carolina advocacy group founded by high school students, has been working to get state and federal legislation passed that would require social media companies to change their platform algorithms to not target youth. Bills have been filed, but so far lawmakers haven’t passed any of them.

Day Allen (red shirt) performs at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C., while his 13-year-old son, Quest Allen, looks on.
New programs

Suicide among youth in general is a top concern for North Carolina health officials. It is the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 18 and the third leading cause for those ages 19 to 34, according to a 2024 report by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Two new statewide programs have already launched to address youth mental health.

Last year, when the remnants of Hurricane Helene slammed into western North Carolina, the state began offering a program called “Somethings.” The virtual mentor program enables youth to speak to someone — usually someone age 21 through 25 — who has significant mental health issues or trauma or challenges. Participants can also speak to a licensed therapist if needed.

“The testimonies we’re getting from the kids in North Carolina have used it have been overwhelmingly positive,” Crosbie told NC Health News. “And we’re seeing a steady increase in the use of that.”

The second program, “Talkspace,” is a virtual therapy platform available to teenagers involved in North Carolina’s justice system between the ages of 13 and 17. It was funded as part of $835 million investment allocated in the 2023 budget that focuses on mental health transformation.

“Nine times out of 10, those kids have significant trauma, and they need a lot of support,” Crosbie said. 

In addition to those programs, state officials are working with community colleges on programming to develop more clinicians, Crosbie said. 

Panelists encouraged youth to find the support that’s already around them, whether that is family, friends or faith. Also, look for available resources, from Medicaid to programs at school or church. 

“You’re not alone,” said UNC Greensboro student Jada Cowan. “You’re not the only one going through this. It’s a bad day, it’s a bad week, it’s a bad month or a bad year, but it’s not a bad life.

“You can still keep going.”

Photo by Galvu00e3o Menacho on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-stronger-together-conference-focuses-on-black-youth-mental-health/

The one-day conference was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to discuss mental health, learn about resources and look toward solutions.

by Jennifer Fernandez

A volunteer at the Stronger Together conference paints a scene on a piece of plywood on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C. Participants were encouraged to share their feelings by painting something. All of the pieces were attached to a wooden arch dubbed the Expression Tunnel.

By Jennifer Fernandez

ROCKY MOUNT — In the Black community, familes don’t talk about suicide or depression, one student said. Black men don’t grow up in homes where they can express themselves, another student added.

Those were some of the sentiments expressed by a panel of college students on Saturday at the inaugural Stronger Together conference, which shone a spotlight on Black youth mental health in North Carolina.

The students agreed that while resources are available to help, many of their friends and families don’t know about them.

That’s even though research shows Black youth are overrepresented in suicides and suicide attempts but are underrepresented in calls to the 988 suicide hotline, particularly in urban counties, state health officials said in a recent news release announcing North Carolina’s first suicide prevention plan aimed primarily at the Black community.

State officials released the five-year plan to address the rise in suicides among Black youth and young adults this summer. That increase reflects a national trend, according to a recent report published in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 

State data from 2023 also showed that Black youth, ages 10 to 24, were particularly overrepresented in emergency department visits for suicidal thoughts or self-injury, officials said. 

The one-day conference on Sept. 20 was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to not only discuss mental health, but also learn about resources and look toward solutions.

“I think this is very much needed to bring some awareness,” said Danielle Allen, 43, of Fuquay-Varina, who attended with her husband and their 13-year-old son, who participated in the talent showcase.

#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

Focus on Black youth

Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, discusses Black youth mental health at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, at the Rocky Mount Event Center in Rocky Mount, N.C.

North Carolina’s plan to address Black youth suicide is part of a national strategy on suicide that was developed last year, with a particular focus on historically marginalized communities. The state plan targets the 17 counties with higher rates of suicide among Black youth, higher calls to the 988 suicide prevention hotline or higher rates of emergency room visits for self-harm.

The state is also in the process of updating its overall suicide prevention plan. The final version, which will incorporate public feedback on the draft plan, should be released later this month, according to Hannah Harms, the state’s suicide prevention coordinator.

Part of the state’s efforts to address Black youth suicide include training laypeople — from families to youth club participants and leaders — to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone struggling with mental health, said Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services.

Not everyone will want to go to a professional, or be able to access one, Crosbie told NC Health News. And there’s always going to be a shortage of professional providers, she said. So it is important to equip the spaces where youth are going to go.

Even if there is a professional in the community, cultural differences can create a barrier if the young person can’t connect with them, she said.

“It can be especially hard to earn the trust and open up and think that they can help you,” Crosbie said.

It’s not just about access, she added. “It’s about the right kind of access.”

The state is focusing efforts on 17 counties, which were identified as having the highest rates of Black youth suicides based on population statistics and/or the highest call volume to the 988 Crisis and Suicide Hotline. This map is included in the North Carolina Black Youth Suicide Prevention Action Plan.

Speaking out

As part of the daylong conference, youth and audience members were invited to share their talents, from poetry and singing to spoken word and dance. 

One trio of young women danced to Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” wearing shirts with the words “trauma,” “pain” and “worry” taped to them. At the end of the song, they ripped the words away and walked off stage. 

Another woman sang a song she wrote about meeting a young man on the top of a parking deck as he contemplated suicide.

“I know it hurts, but it ain’t worth taking your life,” she sang. “You’re worth more than the pain you’re feeling inside.”

Briannah Billings was 24 when she met “August,” the young man in the song of the same name. She said she spoke to him as someone else called 911. He decided not to jump and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Billings never saw him again, but the experience stuck with her.

The more she shared the story, the more friends began to tell her about their own bouts with depression and mental health issues, Billings told NC Health News. 

Being able to discuss mental health freely is important, said Judith VanBoven, one of the college panel members. 

After graduating from UNC Charlotte with degrees in criminal justice and psychology, VanBoven spent some time teaching at Garner High School in Charlotte. A lot of students told her they didn’t know how to start talking about mental health.

“When we talk about it, instead of it being a bad idea or a taboo topic, we are actually making a safe space for people to express what they’re feeling,” she said.

Finding help

Thirteen-year-old Quest Allen, who created some of the beats used during rap performances at the event, said he sees a lot of “people hating” each other at school. But he also said he knows that sometimes they have something going on in their lives that could cause them to act out. 

Many kids, he said, just don’t know there is help out there. 

“They don’t really know where to go,” he said.

If people aren’t exposed to what help is available, they may just feel hopeless, said Quest’s father, Day Allen, 46.

“You think this is just how it is,” he said.

Crosbie told the audience it is important for the state to find ways to reach the Black community, to make sure residents know the resources available to them, and to ensure that those resources meet the community’s needs. 

The 988 suicide helpline, for example, is underutilized by the Black community, health officials have said.

“We know we have to emphasize that it is confidential. It is free. It is not calling 911,” Crosbie said. “It is about calling a mental health counselor who’s there to help you in any way that you need. This is not a punishment. It’s not a penalty, and it’s nothing to be ashamed about.”

Quest said he appreciated some of the coping techniques shared at the conference. In one, participants were taught how to wrap their arms around themselves in a self hug.

He said events like Saturday’s conference are needed.

“It’s important because we’re losing lives,” he said.

Social media affects mental health

The panel of college students delved into social media’s growing influence in the lives of youth and their mental health.

“If you put too much stakes in social media, it always has the opportunity to disappoint you,” said Nas Issoufou, a graduate student at UNC Charlotte. “What happens if you don’t get those likes? What happens if you don’t like how this picture turned out?”

Nautica McKoy, a Gardner-Webb University student, said social media can take away from when young people do have accomplishments, because there’s a constant focus on what has to come next. 

“We need to take a break from the media and seeing all these things,” VanBoven said.

“Know when it is time to take a break and step away from the phone to sit to give yourself peace of mind.”

There are so many voices of influence on social media and so much overstimulation, Day Allen said.

“It’s like handing your kids cocaine,” and they become addicted, he said. “And it’s not reality.”

Quest’s mom, Danielle Allen, said she and her husband are very aware of the potential harms of social media, so they limit their son’s screentime. 

“Your kid might not like it, but it’s gonna be good for them in the long run,” she said.

The Young People’s Alliance, a North Carolina advocacy group founded by high school students, has been working to get state and federal legislation passed that would require social media companies to change their platform algorithms to not target youth. Bills have been filed, but so far lawmakers haven’t passed any of them.

Day Allen (red shirt) performs at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C., while his 13-year-old son, Quest Allen, looks on.

New programs

Suicide among youth in general is a top concern for North Carolina health officials. It is the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 18 and the third leading cause for those ages 19 to 34, according to a 2024 report by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Two new statewide programs have already launched to address youth mental health.

Last year, when the remnants of Hurricane Helene slammed into western North Carolina, the state began offering a program called “Somethings.” The virtual mentor program enables youth to speak to someone — usually someone age 21 through 25 — who has significant mental health issues or trauma or challenges. Participants can also speak to a licensed therapist if needed.

“The testimonies we’re getting from the kids in North Carolina have used it have been overwhelmingly positive,” Crosbie told NC Health News. “And we’re seeing a steady increase in the use of that.”

The second program, “Talkspace,” is a virtual therapy platform available to teenagers involved in North Carolina’s justice system between the ages of 13 and 17. It was funded as part of $835 million investment allocated in the 2023 budget that focuses on mental health transformation.

“Nine times out of 10, those kids have significant trauma, and they need a lot of support,” Crosbie said. 

In addition to those programs, state officials are working with community colleges on programming to develop more clinicians, Crosbie said. 

Panelists encouraged youth to find the support that’s already around them, whether that is family, friends or faith. Also, look for available resources, from Medicaid to programs at school or church. 

“You’re not alone,” said UNC Greensboro student Jada Cowan. “You’re not the only one going through this. It’s a bad day, it’s a bad week, it’s a bad month or a bad year, but it’s not a bad life.

“You can still keep going.”

Photo by Galvu00e3o Menacho on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-stronger-together-conference-focuses-on-black-youth-mental-health/

The one-day conference was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to discuss mental health, learn about resources and look toward solutions.

by Jennifer Fernandez

A volunteer at the Stronger Together conference paints a scene on a piece of plywood on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C. Participants were encouraged to share their feelings by painting something. All of the pieces were attached to a wooden arch dubbed the Expression Tunnel.

By Jennifer Fernandez

ROCKY MOUNT — In the Black community, familes don’t talk about suicide or depression, one student said. Black men don’t grow up in homes where they can express themselves, another student added.

Those were some of the sentiments expressed by a panel of college students on Saturday at the inaugural Stronger Together conference, which shone a spotlight on Black youth mental health in North Carolina.

The students agreed that while resources are available to help, many of their friends and families don’t know about them.

That’s even though research shows Black youth are overrepresented in suicides and suicide attempts but are underrepresented in calls to the 988 suicide hotline, particularly in urban counties, state health officials said in a recent news release announcing North Carolina’s first suicide prevention plan aimed primarily at the Black community.

State officials released the five-year plan to address the rise in suicides among Black youth and young adults this summer. That increase reflects a national trend, according to a recent report published in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 

State data from 2023 also showed that Black youth, ages 10 to 24, were particularly overrepresented in emergency department visits for suicidal thoughts or self-injury, officials said. 

The one-day conference on Sept. 20 was designed as a “day of learning, healing and community building” that allowed Black youth and community members a chance to not only discuss mental health, but also learn about resources and look toward solutions.

“I think this is very much needed to bring some awareness,” said Danielle Allen, 43, of Fuquay-Varina, who attended with her husband and their 13-year-old son, who participated in the talent showcase.

#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

Focus on Black youth

Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, discusses Black youth mental health at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, at the Rocky Mount Event Center in Rocky Mount, N.C.

North Carolina’s plan to address Black youth suicide is part of a national strategy on suicide that was developed last year, with a particular focus on historically marginalized communities. The state plan targets the 17 counties with higher rates of suicide among Black youth, higher calls to the 988 suicide prevention hotline or higher rates of emergency room visits for self-harm.

The state is also in the process of updating its overall suicide prevention plan. The final version, which will incorporate public feedback on the draft plan, should be released later this month, according to Hannah Harms, the state’s suicide prevention coordinator.

Part of the state’s efforts to address Black youth suicide include training laypeople — from families to youth club participants and leaders — to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone struggling with mental health, said Kelly Crosbie, director of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services.

Not everyone will want to go to a professional, or be able to access one, Crosbie told NC Health News. And there’s always going to be a shortage of professional providers, she said. So it is important to equip the spaces where youth are going to go.

Even if there is a professional in the community, cultural differences can create a barrier if the young person can’t connect with them, she said.

“It can be especially hard to earn the trust and open up and think that they can help you,” Crosbie said.

It’s not just about access, she added. “It’s about the right kind of access.”

The state is focusing efforts on 17 counties, which were identified as having the highest rates of Black youth suicides based on population statistics and/or the highest call volume to the 988 Crisis and Suicide Hotline. This map is included in the North Carolina Black Youth Suicide Prevention Action Plan.

Speaking out

As part of the daylong conference, youth and audience members were invited to share their talents, from poetry and singing to spoken word and dance. 

One trio of young women danced to Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” wearing shirts with the words “trauma,” “pain” and “worry” taped to them. At the end of the song, they ripped the words away and walked off stage. 

Another woman sang a song she wrote about meeting a young man on the top of a parking deck as he contemplated suicide.

“I know it hurts, but it ain’t worth taking your life,” she sang. “You’re worth more than the pain you’re feeling inside.”

Briannah Billings was 24 when she met “August,” the young man in the song of the same name. She said she spoke to him as someone else called 911. He decided not to jump and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Billings never saw him again, but the experience stuck with her.

The more she shared the story, the more friends began to tell her about their own bouts with depression and mental health issues, Billings told NC Health News. 

Being able to discuss mental health freely is important, said Judith VanBoven, one of the college panel members. 

After graduating from UNC Charlotte with degrees in criminal justice and psychology, VanBoven spent some time teaching at Garner High School in Charlotte. A lot of students told her they didn’t know how to start talking about mental health.

“When we talk about it, instead of it being a bad idea or a taboo topic, we are actually making a safe space for people to express what they’re feeling,” she said.

Finding help

Thirteen-year-old Quest Allen, who created some of the beats used during rap performances at the event, said he sees a lot of “people hating” each other at school. But he also said he knows that sometimes they have something going on in their lives that could cause them to act out. 

Many kids, he said, just don’t know there is help out there. 

“They don’t really know where to go,” he said.

If people aren’t exposed to what help is available, they may just feel hopeless, said Quest’s father, Day Allen, 46.

“You think this is just how it is,” he said.

Crosbie told the audience it is important for the state to find ways to reach the Black community, to make sure residents know the resources available to them, and to ensure that those resources meet the community’s needs. 

The 988 suicide helpline, for example, is underutilized by the Black community, health officials have said.

“We know we have to emphasize that it is confidential. It is free. It is not calling 911,” Crosbie said. “It is about calling a mental health counselor who’s there to help you in any way that you need. This is not a punishment. It’s not a penalty, and it’s nothing to be ashamed about.”

Quest said he appreciated some of the coping techniques shared at the conference. In one, participants were taught how to wrap their arms around themselves in a self hug.

He said events like Saturday’s conference are needed.

“It’s important because we’re losing lives,” he said.

Social media affects mental health

The panel of college students delved into social media’s growing influence in the lives of youth and their mental health.

“If you put too much stakes in social media, it always has the opportunity to disappoint you,” said Nas Issoufou, a graduate student at UNC Charlotte. “What happens if you don’t get those likes? What happens if you don’t like how this picture turned out?”

Nautica McKoy, a Gardner-Webb University student, said social media can take away from when young people do have accomplishments, because there’s a constant focus on what has to come next. 

“We need to take a break from the media and seeing all these things,” VanBoven said.

“Know when it is time to take a break and step away from the phone to sit to give yourself peace of mind.”

There are so many voices of influence on social media and so much overstimulation, Day Allen said.

“It’s like handing your kids cocaine,” and they become addicted, he said. “And it’s not reality.”

Quest’s mom, Danielle Allen, said she and her husband are very aware of the potential harms of social media, so they limit their son’s screentime. 

“Your kid might not like it, but it’s gonna be good for them in the long run,” she said.

The Young People’s Alliance, a North Carolina advocacy group founded by high school students, has been working to get state and federal legislation passed that would require social media companies to change their platform algorithms to not target youth. Bills have been filed, but so far lawmakers haven’t passed any of them.

Day Allen (red shirt) performs at the Stronger Together Conference on Sept. 20, 2025, in Rocky Mount, N.C., while his 13-year-old son, Quest Allen, looks on.

New programs

Suicide among youth in general is a top concern for North Carolina health officials. It is the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 18 and the third leading cause for those ages 19 to 34, according to a 2024 report by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Two new statewide programs have already launched to address youth mental health.

Last year, when the remnants of Hurricane Helene slammed into western North Carolina, the state began offering a program called “Somethings.” The virtual mentor program enables youth to speak to someone — usually someone age 21 through 25 — who has significant mental health issues or trauma or challenges. Participants can also speak to a licensed therapist if needed.

“The testimonies we’re getting from the kids in North Carolina have used it have been overwhelmingly positive,” Crosbie told NC Health News. “And we’re seeing a steady increase in the use of that.”

The second program, “Talkspace,” is a virtual therapy platform available to teenagers involved in North Carolina’s justice system between the ages of 13 and 17. It was funded as part of $835 million investment allocated in the 2023 budget that focuses on mental health transformation.

“Nine times out of 10, those kids have significant trauma, and they need a lot of support,” Crosbie said. 

In addition to those programs, state officials are working with community colleges on programming to develop more clinicians, Crosbie said. 

Panelists encouraged youth to find the support that’s already around them, whether that is family, friends or faith. Also, look for available resources, from Medicaid to programs at school or church. 

“You’re not alone,” said UNC Greensboro student Jada Cowan. “You’re not the only one going through this. It’s a bad day, it’s a bad week, it’s a bad month or a bad year, but it’s not a bad life.

“You can still keep going.”

Photo by Galvu00e3o Menacho on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=15843

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Nearly 1 Billion People Battle Mental Health Conditions, WHO Warns

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the alarm that almost 1 billion people worldwide are living with mental health conditions, urging governments to take urgent and decisive action.

Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, issued the warning ahead of the High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health scheduled for September 25, stressing that failing to address these health challenges could cost millions of lives and place heavy burdens on global economies.

“Non-communicable diseases include 7 of the world’s top 10 causes of death. In addition, almost 1 billion people face mental health conditions,” Dr. Tedros said.

He highlighted the broader consequences of inaction: “Countries that act decisively to beat NCDs will save millions of lives, protect families, cut health costs, and unlock economic growth. In addition, more than one billion people face mental health conditions, and suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people.”

#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

The WHO chief noted that NCDs and mental health conditions inflict enormous social and economic costs beyond the personal tragedies they cause.

“Apart from cutting lives short and robbing families of their loved ones, these deaths also incur huge costs for health systems and economies,” he said.

Globally, suicide ranks as the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds, with 73% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

In Nigeria, as of January 2024, the suicide mortality rate was 3.5 per 100,000 people, translating to roughly 15,000 deaths annually.

Dr. Tedros explained that countries have been negotiating a political declaration over the past year, which will be finalized at the UN General Assembly meeting.

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-nearly-1-billion-people-battle-mental-health-conditions-who-warns/