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P R O C L A M A T I O N
MAY 2004
MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
WHEREAS, in 2003, President Bush's New Freedom Commission declared that mental health disorders and mental health problems, including addictive disorders, affect people of all backgrounds and all stages of life, and that no one is immune; and
WHEREAS, the President's New Freedom Commission calls for a transformed mental health system in which: Americans understand mental health is essential to overall health; mental health care is consumer and family driven; disparities in mental health services are eliminated; early mental health screening, assessment, and referral to services are common practice; excellent mental health care is delivered and research is accelerated; and technology is used to access mental health care and information; and
WHEREAS, mental health is essential to the overall physical health and emotional well-being of Lakewood's children, youth, adults, and families; and
WHEREAS, people who have mental illnesses can recover and lead full, productive lives; and
WHEREAS, an estimated two-thirds of young people and adults who have mental disorders are not receiving the help they need; and
WHEREAS, the cost of untreated and mistreated mental illnesses and addictive disorders to American businesses, governments, and families has grown to $113 billion annually; and
WHEREAS, the City of Lakewood recognizes the need for a comprehensive, community-based continuum of mental health care available to all citizens and a commitment to the core values and guiding principles of a system of care for children with mental health needs and their families; and
WHEREAS, that over 35 mental health agencies, organizations, and networks in the State of Colorado, observe Mental Health Month each May to raise awareness and understanding of mental health illness.
NOW, THEREFORE, on behalf of the City Council and the people of the City of Lakewood, Colorado, I, Steve Burkholder, Mayor of the City of Lakewood, Colorado, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby proclaim
MAY 2004 - MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
in the city of Lakewood and urge residents, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools to recommit our community to increasing awareness and understanding of mental illness and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental illness.
Given under my hand and Seal of the City of Lakewood, this 10th day of May 2004, A.D.
Stephen A. Burkholder, Mayor
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