[PRpond. Img: Supervisor Sue Novasell, Health and Human Services Director, Patricia Charles-Heathers present a proclamation to El Dorado County Mental Health Commission chair, Jim Abram, recognizing May as Mental Health Month.]
Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. During May, NAMI and the rest of the country are raising awareness of mental health. Each year we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
In 2018, NAMI will promote the theme of "CureStigma" throughout all awareness events, including Mental Health Month.
Why this cause is important: One in 5 Americans is affected by mental health conditions. Stigma is toxic to their mental health because it creates an environment of shame, fear and silence that prevents many people from seeking help and treatment. The perception of mental illness won’t change unless we act to change it.
Campaign manifesto: There’s a virus spreading across America. It harms the 1 in 5 Americans affected by mental health conditions. It shames them into silence. It prevents them from seeking help. And in some cases, it takes lives. What virus are we talking about? It’s stigma. Stigma against people with mental health conditions. But there’s good news. Stigma is 100% curable. Compassion, empathy and understanding are the antidote. Your voice can spread the cure. Join NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Together we can #CureStigma.
Proclamation: THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF EL DORADO Recognizing May 2018 as MENTAL HEALTH MONTH.
WHEREAS, mental illness will affect nearly one in five adults and children in a given year, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, socio-economic status, or religion; and
WHEREAS, mental health is essential to the overall health of every individual in our community; and
WHEREAS, mental health conditions are real and prevalent in our County with many individuals experiencing times of difficulty and stress in their lives; and
WHEREAS, mental illness among children, adults, and older adults is a condition deserving priority attention, including prevention and early intervention services and medical and supportive care; and
WHEREAS, through effective prevention, early intervention and treatment, individuals with mental health conditions can maximize the opportunities for resiliency and positive change; and
WHEREAS, the cost of untreated mental illness and addictive disorders to American businesses, governments and families has grown to $100 billion annually; and
WHEREAS, the stigma of mental illness deprives many people from seeking mental health services they need and deserve to fully enjoy a quality of life in their community; and
WHEREAS, research shows that the most effective way to reduce stigma is through personal contact with someone with mental illness; and
WHEREAS, greater public awareness about mental illness can change negative attitudes and behaviors toward people with mental illness; and
WHEREAS, through honest, respectful communication, education, and positive community-oriented collaboration, we can break down stigma and provide recovery-oriented mental health services throughout the County.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado does hereby proclaim May 2018 as Mental Health Month and calls upon all citizens, governmental agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, hospitals and schools in El Dorado County to increase public awareness of the importance of mental health, promote greater understanding and hope for those who live with mental illness to reduce stigma and discrimination, and pay tribute to all who devote their skill and expertise to the cause of better mental health for our citizens.
Passed by the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado at a regular meeting of said Board, held the 8th day of May, 2018.
