James Donaldson on Mental Health - We can all help prevent suicide

DEAR EDITOR:

This month marks two years since our nation launched 988, the easy-to-remember, nationwide mental health crisis helpline. Since its launch, 988 has received more than 8 million calls from people in distress seeking support when they need it most. 988 is confidential, effective and available to everyone via phone, text or chat. America has a lifeline.

Spread the word that help is available. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration:

988 callers connect quickly with trained crisis counselors.

Crises are typically deescalated. Less than 2% of 988 calls require response from emergency services. Many callers report that their call prevented them from taking their life.

People feel better after calling. Numerous studies of 988 calls have shown that the majority of callers were significantly more likely to feel less depressed and more hopeful after speaking with a crisis counselor.

34% of 988 calls are about mental health concerns other than 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

www.celebratingyourgiftolflife.com

Link for 40 Habits Signupbit.ly/40HabitsofMentalHealth

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If someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need by calling 988 or seeking help at a licensed behavioral health facility.

As a behavioral healthcare provider right here in Northeast Ohio, our team at Belmont Pines Hospital is dedicated to supporting individuals in a manner that promotes hope, resiliency, connectedness and recovery. We are proud to partner with the local 988 network and are a resource for individuals needing help.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=12929