2017 Senate Joint Resolution 48
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: proclaiming May 2017 as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Whereas, one in five Americans lives with a mental illness; and
Whereas, May has been observed as National Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949; and
Whereas, Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about mental illnesses, such as major depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, and draw attention to suicide, which may be precipitated by mental illness; and
Whereas, we must empower first responders, doctors, and families to help those with the most severe mental illnesses to ensure that people with mental illness have access to evidence-based treatment and services; and
Whereas, the stigma associated with mental illness prevents many individuals from seeking help for themselves or loved ones; and
Whereas, treatments for mental illnesses are highly effective; and
Whereas, reducing the stigma associated with mental illness through compassion, education, and advocacy can draw attention to the proven methods that better the lives of those living with a mental illness; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the
senate, the assembly concurring, That the members of the legislature join our colleagues in Congress by proclaiming May as Mental Health Awareness Month.
