LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim May 2010, as Mental Health Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, The State of New York takes great pride in participating in
events designed to raise awareness of serious health issues; and
WHEREAS, Mental health is critical for our well-being and vitality, as
well as that of our families, communities and businesses; and
WHEREAS, The World Health Organization found that mental illnesses
rank first in terms of causing disability in the United States, and,
collectively, are the most prevalent health problems in America today;
they are more common than cancer, lung and heart disease combined; and
WHEREAS, Approximately one in 10 children has a serious mental health
disorder that, if untreated, can lead to school failure, physical
illness, substance abuse and even suicide; and
WHEREAS, Mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression and
anxiety disorders are real, common and treatable illnesses; and
WHEREAS, The United States Surgeon General has found that a range of
mental health treatments of documented efficacy exists for most mental
disorders; and
WHEREAS, In a given year, 22 to 23 percent of the United States popu-
lation experiences a mental disorder; half of those individuals do not
receive any sort of treatment; and
WHEREAS, The number one reason cited for not seeking services is the
stigma associated with mental illness; only 42 percent of Americans
believe that a person with a mental illness can be successful in socie-
ty; and
WHEREAS, People with mental illnesses can and do recover; over 80
percent of individuals with depression who receive treatment recover and
live productively in society; and
WHEREAS, New York residents, government agencies, public and private
institutions, businesses and schools are committed to increasing aware-
ness and understanding of mental illness and the need for appropriate
and accessible services for all people with mental illnesses; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim May 2010, as Mental
Health Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York.