My Story
Hi, my name is Jim Maley. I am a teacher in the suburbs of Chicago. I was a former division 1 basketball player for Northwestern before depression got the best of me. Ultimately, I graduated from Holy Cross in Worcester, MA.
I’ve spent 16 years as a teacher and 9 years as a head varsity basketball coach. 5 years ago I started speaking about depression and suicide awareness at my school and others. From the feedback in letters, emails, cards and in-person testimonials, my presentation has helped countless students.
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"Jimmy, there is going to be someone in that locker room that hears your story and gets help because of what you tell them."
My Mission
As a motivational speaker, my mission is to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing my personal journey and empowering others to do the same. I recognize that mental health challenges, like depression, affect not only individuals but also their families and communities. It is crucial for us to identify the signs of struggle and foster a culture of support and understanding.
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I believe that together, we can break the silence. While my voice alone may not dismantle the stigma, I encourage each person I connect with to share their own story of resilience. By doing so, we create a powerful network of hope and healing, capable of changing lives and potentially saving them. Together, let's cultivate a world where mental health is openly discussed, and seeking help is a sign of strength.