LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim October 2014, as Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder
Awareness Month in New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
months set aside to increase awareness of serious disorders which affect
the lives of citizens of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorial-
ize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim October 2014, as Attention
Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder Awareness Month in New York; and
WHEREAS, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurode-
velopmental disorder, characterized by a combination of inattentiveness,
distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which affects approxi-
mately 9.5 percent of children and 4.4 percent of adults; and
WHEREAS, Described as a persistent pattern of inattention or hyperac-
tivity and impulsivity, those individuals with ADHD may also experience
difficulties with executive function, focus, and working memory; and
WHEREAS, It is important to acknowledge and heighten awareness about
the serious issues relating to ADHD, as it is often accompanied by other
mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disor-
ders; and
WHEREAS, When ADHD goes unnoticed or untreated it can greatly affect
one's ability to achieve academic or workplace success and also a
person's ability to build close relationships with others; and
WHEREAS, Recognized nationwide as Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity
Disorder Awareness Month, October is an important time to bring atten-
tion to such a costly and persistent medical condition; and
WHEREAS, Up to 50 percent of children eventually outgrow the condi-
tion, but even if they do, earlier developmental delays may create
enduring learning problems; work, school, and managing household tasks
can be very challenging for people with ADD and ADHD; and
WHEREAS, Fortunately, those affected by ADHD can learn coping skills
to work around shortcomings and harness talents, just as many successful
people with ADD and ADHD have done; and
WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of
this serious health disorder and more must be done to increase activity
at the local, State and national levels; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim October 2014, as Atten-
tion Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder Awareness Month in New York; and be
it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.