El Dorado County Declares May 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 and 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 and from enjoying the quality of life obtainable within El Dorado County; 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 RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado does hereby proclaim May 2014 as Mental Health Month in the County and calls upon all citizens, governmental agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, hospitals and schools in the County of El Dorado to increase public awareness of the importance of mental health, reduce stigma and discrimination, promote greater understanding and hope for those who live with mental illness, and pay tribute to all who devote their skill and expertise to the cause of better mental health for our citizens.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado at a regular meeting of said Board, held the 13th day of May 2014.