Shedding Light on Mental Health: Erasing the Stigma and Providing Tools for Difficult Conversations with Damon Parker

Hey there, podcast enthusiasts! I'm thrilled to introduce you to the latest episode of the Entrusted to Lead podcast. In this powerful episode, I had the honor of speaking with Coach Damon Parker, the executive director of The Jones Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing hope and healing to students regarding mental health.

Coach Damon Parker, the keynote speaker and executive director of The Jones Project, spent 21 years as a teacher, coach and professional speaker in both Kansas and Missouri. His gripping 60-minute presentations are not solely directed at students who are in crisis; they also are for those in the audience who don’t have firsthand experience with mental health illnesses.

As a mother and someone who witnessed loved ones navigate through mental health challenges, I found myself deeply drawn to The Jones Project's mission of erasing the stigma around seeking help. In this episode, Coach Damon shares his personal journey and experiences that led him to dedicate his life to mental health awareness and suicide prevention for high school and middle school students.

We start by discussing the importance of community and how my involvement in the online Cold Creatives community has helped me launch new ideas and achieve long-held dreams. I invite you to join the Cold Creatives community, where you'll find invaluable resources for writing, podcasting, and personal growth – it's all about collaboration instead of competition.

Throughout the episode, Coach Damon sheds light on the challenges faced by The Jones Project as they strive to reach and support as many students as possible. Damon's insights are both eye-opening and inspiring, from managing the influx of messages and finding local resources for students in rural areas to the power of storytelling and the need for trusted adults in our schools.

We dive deep into the conversation about mental health, early intervention's importance, and open, honest conversations. Damon shares his struggles, and the impact that attending a funeral had on him, serving as a wake-up call to address his mental health.

The Jones Project, with its tagline "Find a way," is making a real difference in the lives of countless students. Damon and his team provide support and resources and create a community where conversations can continue even after they're gone.

But they need your help. Damon emphasizes the importance of being proactive, getting involved in mental health initiatives, offering support, and finding a trusted adult who can make a difference in a student's life. And if you feel compelled to contribute, donations and ideas are always welcome to further The Jones Project's mission.

Don't miss out on this insightful and impactful episode.

Head over to iTunes or Spotify to listen to the entire conversation with Coach Damon Parker and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of mental health awareness and support in our schools. And while you're there, be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review for the Entrusted to Lead podcast – your support means the world.

Let's create a world where mental health is prioritized and e

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