HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrsntn - May '09 Mental Health Monthr. ‘c
\c-_, .z, 3
`f,)-1''i) )-JK
rroclamation 2009
WHEREAS, mental health is critical for our well-being and vitality as well as that of our
families and communities; and
WHEREAS, the World Health Organization found that mental illnesses are the number
one cause of disability in the United States and, collectively, are the most prevalent health
problem in America today — more common than cancer, and heart disease combined; and
WHEREAS, one in 10 children has a serious mental disorder that can lead to school
failure, physical illness, substance abuse and suicide; and
WHEREAS, according to the 2007 County of Riverside Homeless Count, there are more
than 4,500 homeless adults and children on a given day; and according to the same count,
nearly 20% of the homeless were children under the age of 18 living with a homeless
parent; and according to the same count, nearly one-third reported symptoms of mental
illness; and
WHEREAS, (Name of City or Community) has made a commitment to community -based
mental health care for all residents; and
WHEREAS, the Mental Health America, the National Council for Community
Behavioral Healthcare and their national partners observe Mental Health Month each
May to raise awareness and understanding of mental illness; and
THEREFORE, I, (Name of Mayor), do hereby proclaim May 2009 Mental Health Month
in (Name of City or Community). As the Mayor, I also call upon all (Name of City)
citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools to
recommit our community to increasing awareness and understanding of mental illness,
improving the array of mental health services for consumers of all ages, and expanding
the supply of affordable, supportive housing for people living with mental illness.