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.
"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.
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.